tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6162462957069518522Mon, 19 Feb 2018 02:07:33 +0000throwback thursdaySpanish FridaymexicanTeresanovelaaaron diazcellphonesebastian rulliChristmas listana brenda contrerasangelique boyerartfamily fungiveawaymaurianothings to do in atlantatruth tuesday1 year blogiversaryGeorgiaHodgson MillMexican-ismNavidadarturoaurorabeing crunchycascaroncascaronesculturedecoratingdinosaursdreaming in Spanisheasterfamily photogloria trevihealthholidayjuicinglaser showlatin musicmexican candymexican foodradio soniderastone mountain parkthings to do in georgia1st trip to Mexico40th birthday50 shades of greyAnastasia steeleAtlantaAventuraChocolate ratoncitosChristian greyDJDLGDanceE.L. JamesEl elfo en la platformaElf on the ShelfElvisFathers DayFernbankGeorgia lotteryGratisHuey DunbarJaipurJuegosMexicoNovlaPeruSuegraTeresa FinalTeresa Final AlternativoTeresa FinaleTeresa Finale AlternativesThe MasqueradeTommyTommy TorresUPrinting Giveaway winnerValentine's DayWal-Martadventure passamazing dadamorandroid appangel food ministriesangry bird birthday partyangry bird cakeangry bird party ideasangry birdsanimal rescueanimalsanniversaryargueariesbachatabailarbaile de sopresabakingballenabeautifulbicultural mombirthday party on a budgetblogblogerasbloggingbluesbruno marsbuy a horsecabbage patch dollcabbage patch kidcanvascassowarycatscellphone picscenter for puppetry artschangecharitycherry cobblerchicharitochicken soupchildren activitieschinese birthdaychocolate micechristmas giftcolognecolombian jeanscomprar caballoconcertconchasconfrontationcontrolcontroversialcorn dawgscorridoscostumecountry musiccrazycredibilitycumbiacuriously oddcuñadadan mcdonalddance lessonsday of the deaddebtdebt freedifferencesdinodrawingsdulceseducational activitieseggsel ranchoempanadaerotic fictionesa hembra es malafall funfamilyfamily fotofeelingsfeliz navidadfinalefindsflea marketflourfortune cookiefree tickets to zoofree zoo ticketsfriendsfriendshipfruit pizzafungeorgia attractionsgeorgia legal systemgiftsgluten freegratitudegringahalloweenheating and airhelpfulhippieholidayshomeless outreachhot saucehot wingshumori am womanindustria del amorintocablejim hensonjudge greg mathiskitekomodo dragonkumbia kingsla cascadala pulgala sequialanguage mix uplatin eventslemonlibrarylife regeneratorlou coronalove songslove146 causesmacgyvermachismomachomagicmangometro pcsmexican macgyvermexican standoffmexican wedding cookiesmexicanismmillionairemillionariomiscommunicationmoney saving tipsmother in lawmulticultural monday blog hopmuseummusicamusica sonideramustardnailsnew yearno debtno tengo dineroorganicostrich attackpajaros furiosospandapartiespartypeacepelon pelo ricopendergrasspensamientospeopleplastic balloonsplastic bubblespolvoronespoplularpostprank phone callprimaproudpuppet showpupusaque pasa u.s.a.queridoquestionairequinceanerarecipereggaetonrichride the duckssalsasavingssealself acceptancesevenlysewshoesshoppingsietesilverback gorillaslangsopasoupsouveneirsspeaking upspringsquirrelstorestreet entertainerstubbornsubstitutesuegrosundsays in my citysunglassessurpise dancetaco belltacontamalestamarindtampicotemperatureteresa eyeshadowteresa makeupthe great barnthe mexicanthermostat songthinking outside of the boxtigertostadastraditionstramptraptravie mccoytroy davistwitcamunique like meunivisionupdateuprintingvacationvegetable soupvera mango paletavinegarwebtvwhalewhat's on your cellwhole wheatwild animal safariyoutubezoo atlantaMe & the MexicanMaking two cultures work in one casa.http://meandthemexican.blogspot.com/noreply@blogger.com (Tara)Blogger177125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6162462957069518522.post-5321919916661952329Sat, 06 May 2017 19:07:00 +00002017-05-06T15:07:16.573-04:00Broadcasting Live Canelo vs. Chavez Jr. FightWatch the Canelo vs. Chavez Jr. fight free by clicking here.<div>&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="http://www.deporteseninternet.com/" target="_blank">CANELO VS. CHAVEZ JR. FIGHT FREE</a><div><br /></div></div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div><br /></div><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/blogspot/AVHGS/~4/_6_wGGBCAOM" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/blogspot/AVHGS/~3/_6_wGGBCAOM/broadcasting-live-canelo-vs-chavez-jr.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (Tara)0http://meandthemexican.blogspot.com/2017/05/broadcasting-live-canelo-vs-chavez-jr.htmltag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6162462957069518522.post-2373682614692826474Fri, 05 Feb 2016 15:09:00 +00002016-02-05T10:14:21.863-05:00My Mexican*note* &nbsp;This post was originally posted in January 2011.<br /><br />The way we met was not your ordinary way......&nbsp; I had gone through a bad break up and could not listen to ANY&nbsp; music with out crying.&nbsp; It would always bring up some type of memory or I'd have to hear some sappy love song lyrics. &nbsp; One day I found a spanish radio station and thought, "This is great!&nbsp; Music... and I have no clue what they are saying!"<br /><br />A couple of months went by and I was really getting into this spanish music!&nbsp; Talk about a "beat"...<br />I worked with a girl from Colombia (South America) and told her I wanted to learn spanish.&nbsp; She told me that I needed to do EVERYTHING in spanish...&nbsp; Watch Univision, eat spanish food, drink spanish drinks, listen to spanish music (check), hang only with my spanish friends, do absolutely everything in spanish.&nbsp; So, that is what I did. <br /><br />Amazingly, it started coming to me. &nbsp; Don't get me wrong, i made some pretty funny mistakes "Tengo mucho hambre"&nbsp; ("i'm really hungry") and "Tengo mucho hombre" ("i have a lot of men") will definitely get a laugh out of your spanish friends.<br /><br />I had one friend inpaticular (from Mexico)&nbsp; and every day he gave me a new word. My job was to find out what the word meant.&nbsp; So far the words had been easy enough.&nbsp; One day he gave me a word.&nbsp; I searched everywhere. I looked in the dictionary, I called my Colombian girlfriends, I even searched the web and NADA!&nbsp; I couldn't find any info on this word.&nbsp; I called my friend and he insisted it was a "WORD" but refused to tell me what it meant.<br /><br />So last resort&nbsp; I got online, went into a spanish chatroom and asked if anyone knew what the word meant.&nbsp; "The Mexican" instant messaged me and told me the meaning of the word.&nbsp; Turns out it was a "slang" word.&nbsp; (i don't even remember now what the word was, neither does "the mexican", wish we did)<br /><br />Our conversation did not end at that point.&nbsp; We continued to chat for hours.&nbsp; I explained I was learning spanish and why I was "online" and in a "chat room" etc.... He convinced me to give him my # so he could call.&nbsp; He warned me that he only spoke spanish.....<br /><br />"The Mexican" called and we talked for hours.&nbsp; It was GREAT practice!&nbsp; He was patient and I was determined.&nbsp; We talked for probably 6 weeks ONLY IN SPANISH until he let his secret slip!&nbsp; He was fluent in English!&nbsp; So this whole time he had been laughing behind the scenes at all my mistakes....<br /><br />"The Mexican" and I agreed to meet at a restaurant and we've been together ever since............<br /><br />This happened over 10 years ago and the internet wasn't even as popular as it is these days.&nbsp; Yes, it was a strange way to meet, but that's how it happened and i'm thankful everyday for #1) the horrible breakup, #2) the Colombian friend telling me to do eveything in spanish, and #3) the friend who gave me the slang word.&nbsp; Without those 3 things, we never would have met....<br /><br />And for the cups 1/2 empty out there saying, 'oh he just wanted his papers..lalalala"&nbsp; HE ALREADY HAD THEM!&nbsp; Lucky me! <!-- beginning of adsense --> <script async="" src="//pagead2.googlesyndication.com/pagead/js/adsbygoogle.js"></script><!-- Meandthemexican belowpost --><br /><ins class="adsbygoogle" data-ad-client="ca-pub-5712206034924760" data-ad-format="auto" data-ad-slot="5099794007" style="display: block;"></ins><script>(adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); </script><!-- end of adsense --><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/blogspot/AVHGS/~4/nN9YSMLtLaM" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/blogspot/AVHGS/~3/nN9YSMLtLaM/my-mexican.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (Tara)19http://meandthemexican.blogspot.com/2011/01/my-mexican.htmltag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6162462957069518522.post-8276144404392198956Thu, 04 Feb 2016 03:46:00 +00002016-02-05T09:14:16.201-05:00Guacamole Recipe Simple Easy and DeliciosoLooking for a simple and delicious guacamole recipe? &nbsp;Look no further... <br />Here is my famoso guacamole recipe. &nbsp;Hubby actually requested this tonight so I decided to make a short video. &nbsp;It's just a few simple steps and ta-da!!! &nbsp;Delicious, mouth watering, guacamole that is sure to impress your family and friends. &nbsp;Check out the video. It's only a minute long! I've got my guac skills down to an art. Jaja! &nbsp;Oh, and you can add 1/2 a chopped jalapeno to really spice it up or even a whole jalapeno if you dare.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe width="320" height="266" class="YOUTUBE-iframe-video" data-thumbnail-src="https://i.ytimg.com/vi/4_3R4ES3DR8/0.jpg" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/4_3R4ES3DR8?feature=player_embedded" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe></div><br /><!-- beginning of adsense --> <script async="" src="//pagead2.googlesyndication.com/pagead/js/adsbygoogle.js"></script><!-- Meandthemexican belowpost --><br /><ins class="adsbygoogle" data-ad-client="ca-pub-5712206034924760" data-ad-format="auto" data-ad-slot="5099794007" style="display: block;"></ins><script>(adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); </script><!-- end of adsense --><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/blogspot/AVHGS/~4/cE0qL6wUbw4" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/blogspot/AVHGS/~3/cE0qL6wUbw4/guacamole-recipe-simple-easy-and.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (Tara)0http://meandthemexican.blogspot.com/2016/02/guacamole-recipe-simple-easy-and.htmltag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6162462957069518522.post-79963525238518863Mon, 01 Feb 2016 02:31:00 +00002016-02-05T09:13:01.506-05:00Mexican Green Chile ChickenHola mis amigos!<br />I wanted to share a recipe with you guys. I made this tonight for dinner. I recorded the video incase it came out really good... and I'm happy to report that it was SUPER DELICIOSO! Hubby loved it! It wasn't super spicy or anything (which I was worried about because I'm not use to cooking with a bunch of chiles). Give it a try! It is sure to impress!<br />Besos!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe width="320" height="266" class="YOUTUBE-iframe-video" data-thumbnail-src="https://i.ytimg.com/vi/ZLLyToZaecU/0.jpg" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/ZLLyToZaecU?feature=player_embedded" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe></div><br /><!-- beginning of adsense --> <script async="" src="//pagead2.googlesyndication.com/pagead/js/adsbygoogle.js"></script><!-- Meandthemexican belowpost --><br /><ins class="adsbygoogle" data-ad-client="ca-pub-5712206034924760" data-ad-format="auto" data-ad-slot="5099794007" style="display: block;"></ins><script>(adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); </script><!-- end of adsense --><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/blogspot/AVHGS/~4/o8YIFHLHS9w" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/blogspot/AVHGS/~3/o8YIFHLHS9w/mexican-green-chile-chicken.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (Tara)0http://meandthemexican.blogspot.com/2016/01/mexican-green-chile-chicken.htmltag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6162462957069518522.post-6968384274632328463Sun, 24 Jan 2016 22:05:00 +00002016-02-05T09:05:48.181-05:00Toda MujerSo today hubby and I went out for some tacos del pastor (mmm... que RICO) and then stocked up on plenty of pan dulce since all of our empanadas his mother sent are gone.<br /><br />Once we were in the car I turned it on our local Spanish radio station (to keep the festive spirit going), I couldn't help but move to the music. &nbsp;I have no idea the name of who was singing but I do know it was musica banda. &nbsp;As I moved to the music (demonstrating my own unique choreography), I asked hubby if he could picture me dressed in all blue with some white boots holding my clarinet while swaying to the music. &nbsp;He politely replied, "umm NO!" <br />Me- "You do know I play the clarinet right?"<br />Hubby- "Well that is what you say."<br />Me- "Well if I still had my clarinet, I'd PROVE it!"<br /><br />So, daydreaming about being in una banda got me thinking.<br /><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><br /><!-- beginning of adsense --> <script async="" src="//pagead2.googlesyndication.com/pagead/js/adsbygoogle.js"></script><!-- Meandthemexican belowpost --><br /><ins class="adsbygoogle" data-ad-client="ca-pub-5712206034924760" data-ad-format="auto" data-ad-slot="5099794007" style="display: block;"></ins><script>(adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); </script><!-- end of adsense --></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Image credit: &nbsp;Globuum.com</td></tr></tbody></table>Are there any all girl bandas out there? &nbsp;I know there are plenty of rock groups and there are female singers backed up by bandas that include men etc... but I'm talking about una BANDA, como &nbsp;EL RECODO!<br /><br />Quiero ver &nbsp;una banda<br />de todas mujeres... that play their own instruments too!<br />Now that would be cool!<br />If it exist, someone please fill me in!<br /><br />Hubby was clueless if this type of banda exists. &nbsp;I shared my ideas of how all the girls would play their own instruments and do those little synchronized movements. &nbsp;They'd sing songs that empower women! &nbsp;They'd wear sequined jackets just like the men do along with botas! They'd call themselves <b><i>Banda Toda Mujer!</i></b>&nbsp;Oh yeh, I had a whole fantasy going on in my head... <br /><br />I researched a little online and couldn't find anything about an all girl banda. &nbsp;So, I'm reaching out to you guys... &nbsp;Does it exist?<br /><br />If it does exist or if someone starts one.... &nbsp;I'm available to play the clarinet!<br /><br />Here's a little banda music for you to enjoy. &nbsp;(Imagine it being an all girl banda though....I know I'd be a fan!)<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowFullScreen='true' webkitallowfullscreen='true' mozallowfullscreen='true' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/Ljyk05WjKIw?feature=player_embedded' FRAMEBORDER='0' /></div><br /><!-- beginning of adsense --> <script async="" src="//pagead2.googlesyndication.com/pagead/js/adsbygoogle.js"></script><!-- Meandthemexican belowpost --><br /><ins class="adsbygoogle" data-ad-client="ca-pub-5712206034924760" data-ad-format="auto" data-ad-slot="5099794007" style="display: block;"></ins><script>(adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); </script><!-- end of adsense --><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/blogspot/AVHGS/~4/gYMNqo5agGM" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/blogspot/AVHGS/~3/gYMNqo5agGM/toda-mujer.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (Tara)12http://meandthemexican.blogspot.com/2013/02/toda-mujer.htmltag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6162462957069518522.post-2801179599059324468Tue, 11 Aug 2015 01:22:00 +00002016-01-24T16:19:19.317-05:00Mexican Chicken Soup - Sopa de PolloGuys, hubby helped me upload a video onto YouTube of my "famosa" sopa de pollo! &nbsp;It is so good. &nbsp;My friend who worked in a Mexican restaurant showed me the basic recipe. &nbsp;I have tweaked it a little over the years. &nbsp;It is so good that my son would probably eat this every day of the week! jaja... &nbsp;no really, he would!<br /><br />I figured seeing it via video is much easier to understand than trying to follow a written "receta" (recipe). &nbsp;If you decide to make it, please let me know how you like it. &nbsp;I promise, this recipe is a WINNER!<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="YOUTUBE-iframe-video" data-thumbnail-src="https://i.ytimg.com/vi/IJj-bxtkoQg/0.jpg" frameborder="0" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/IJj-bxtkoQg?feature=player_embedded" width="320"></iframe></div><!-- beginning of adsense --> <script async src="//pagead2.googlesyndication.com/pagead/js/adsbygoogle.js"></script><!-- Meandthemexican belowpost --><ins class="adsbygoogle" style="display:block" data-ad-client="ca-pub-5712206034924760" data-ad-slot="5099794007" data-ad-format="auto"></ins><script>(adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); </script><!-- end of adsense --><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/blogspot/AVHGS/~4/C0zcfGdCWkg" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/blogspot/AVHGS/~3/C0zcfGdCWkg/mexican-chicken-soup-sopa-de-pollo.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (Tara)3http://meandthemexican.blogspot.com/2015/08/mexican-chicken-soup-sopa-de-pollo.htmltag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6162462957069518522.post-7815139411847682175Fri, 27 Mar 2015 13:44:00 +00002016-01-24T16:26:31.565-05:00Mixed MarriageWe live out in the country and although there is a Hispanic population in our town, we don't know alot of people. &nbsp;We do have two friends (they are brother and sister) &nbsp;from Mexico who live about 10 miles away and we hang out with them pretty regular. &nbsp;The girl has a son the same age as mine, so the kids are especially happy when we hang out. &nbsp;The guy has known my husband for a long time and they know some of the same people.<br /><br />Anyways... &nbsp;they invited us to one of their friend's &nbsp;barbecue last weekend. &nbsp;When we got there I realized I was the only gringo there. &nbsp;That is fine because I speak some Spanish (if needed), love a cook out, and I'm really friendly! <br /><br /> The kids immediately started playing, the guys went outside and hung out with the cook, and there I was sitting at the kitchen table with the girls. &nbsp;Out of the 4 girls, there was one who spoke English really good. &nbsp;After we got all the greetings and introductions out of the way, her 1st words to me were...<br />"How long have you been married to your husband?"<br />&nbsp;Ummmm.....what.....????.... this is what I was thinking but of course didn't say.<br />&nbsp;I answered her, "10 years married, around 14 years together total."<br />I could tell by the look on her face she was surprised.<br /><br />Her next question was...<br />"Does he speak good English?"<br />I answered, "Yeh, I guess. &nbsp;I understand him." &nbsp;That was suppose to be a joke but no one laughed.<br />So then she proceeded to make this comment...<br />"WOW! &nbsp;It must be true love! &nbsp;I know how hard marriage is and I can only imagine how hard it is when you speak two different languages!"<br /><br />Now, at 1st &nbsp;I took this as an insult. &nbsp;It was her tone. &nbsp;It was a condescending tone. &nbsp;Whatever, I let it slide. &nbsp;No need to get offended within the first 10 minutes.<br /><br />As the day went on, &nbsp;she asked a ton more questions! &nbsp;PERSONAL questions! &nbsp;Like do we own our own home, how much our house payment is, did my hubby's family in Mexico like me, etc... <br />By the end of the day she knew way more about me than I knew about her!<br />I wasn't offended though. &nbsp;I think she was curious and the type of person who just said or asked what was on her mind.<br /><br />By the end of the day we had eaten frijoles charros, pollo, bistec, puerco, tortillas, guacamole, salsa, pastel, and ice cream cake! &nbsp;We were stuffed. &nbsp;We were speaking in total Spanglish! and laughing....OMG did we laugh! &nbsp;It was a great day and I'm really glad we went.<br /><br />Advertisement <br /><!-- beginning of adsense --> <script async src="//pagead2.googlesyndication.com/pagead/js/adsbygoogle.js"></script><!-- Meandthemexican belowpost --><ins class="adsbygoogle" style="display:block" data-ad-client="ca-pub-5712206034924760" data-ad-slot="5099794007" data-ad-format="auto"></ins><script>(adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); </script><!-- end of adsense --><br /><br />The reason for this whole story....<br />Going back to the one girls, original question and comment.<br />I started thinking and you know what...she's right!<br />YES, marriage is hard and YES! it is especially hard when you are from two different cultures and your native languages are not the same. &nbsp;I know every marriage has it's own set of issues. &nbsp;Being in a bi-cultural marriage is especially challenging in my opinion. (Throw in how difficult my hubby can be at times and I deserve a medal....or does he? hmmm...)<br />I know I'm always blogging about how wonderful everything is and yes at times it is wonderful and at certain times its not.<br />Things get lost in translation. &nbsp;He says one thing in English and I blow up because I took it the wrong way. &nbsp;(FYI, some things you would say in your native tongue sound different or come out different when translated into another language.)<br />The cultural differences peak around the corner from time to time and yell GOTCHA!<br />I guess if you want it to work, you make it work! &nbsp;It's not easy all the time and I think people in mixed relationships have their own set of challenges that two people with a similar upbringing will not face. <br />Does it make it harder? &nbsp;More interesting? &nbsp;I guess it depends on the way you look at it. &nbsp;There have been so many times I have thought.... I give up! &nbsp;This is too much. &nbsp;But, then I think of everything we have overcome. &nbsp;All the new things I've learned. &nbsp;The benefits of mixing two cultures together...<br />There are positives and negatives. &nbsp;The key is having the positives outweigh the negatives.<br /><br />Are you married to someone of a different culture than yours? &nbsp;Do you think it is more challenging? Would love to hear your thoughts.<br /><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/blogspot/AVHGS/~4/3wxU6ZsGHFk" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/blogspot/AVHGS/~3/3wxU6ZsGHFk/mixed-marriage.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (Tara)2http://meandthemexican.blogspot.com/2015/03/mixed-marriage.htmltag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6162462957069518522.post-6478878837875826132Mon, 09 Feb 2015 04:34:00 +00002016-01-24T16:30:01.864-05:00Belly Dancing and Moroccan Food<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;">Hubby and I promised my parents we were going to take them somewhere fun so we decided on &nbsp;</span><a href="http://www.imperialfez.com/" style="text-align: left;" target="_blank">Imperial Fez</a><span style="text-align: left;">, a Morrocan restaurant that has live belly dancing here in Atlanta. &nbsp;What a performance they put on! &nbsp;No matter where you were seated you had a great view and the food was very good. &nbsp;We had a great time so I thought I'd share our experience.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;"><br /></span></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7KaCKzh0CUs/VNgsEql2ZbI/AAAAAAAABZE/x9jkdV09Spk/s1600/20141231_193655-001.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7KaCKzh0CUs/VNgsEql2ZbI/AAAAAAAABZE/x9jkdV09Spk/s1600/20141231_193655-001.jpg" width="426" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">One of the many belly dancers</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>The tables were low to the ground and you sat on these comfy benches that were covered in pillows. &nbsp;It was very comfortable. &nbsp;The waiter was very nice and explained everything to us. &nbsp;He never made us feel rushed and was very attentive. <br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-JK9RVpX2YCU/VNgtIRpPgRI/AAAAAAAABZc/P5TSp2LuWg0/s1600/IMG_20141231_204620-001.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-JK9RVpX2YCU/VNgtIRpPgRI/AAAAAAAABZc/P5TSp2LuWg0/s1600/IMG_20141231_204620-001.jpg" width="424" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This talented dancer incorporated fire into her routine!</td></tr></tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;">It is a 5 course meal so you are going to be there a while. &nbsp;We were in no rush though because it was just too entertaining! &nbsp;The dancers were very beautiful and talented.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Here is a video of one of the belly dancers. &nbsp;On into the night some people starting tipping the dancers. &nbsp;We handed my son a dollar. &nbsp;You should have seen the look on his face! &nbsp;We couldn't resist... &nbsp;I mean, what fun is it if you can't embarrass your child once in a while?</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="YOUTUBE-iframe-video" data-thumbnail-src="https://ytimg.googleusercontent.com/vi/QwaGiuCX6t8/0.jpg" frameborder="0" height="266" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/QwaGiuCX6t8?feature=player_embedded" width="320"></iframe><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><!-- beginning of adsense --> <script async src="//pagead2.googlesyndication.com/pagead/js/adsbygoogle.js"></script><!-- Meandthemexican belowpost --><ins class="adsbygoogle" style="display:block" data-ad-client="ca-pub-5712206034924760" data-ad-slot="5099794007" data-ad-format="auto"></ins><script>(adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); </script><!-- end of adsense -->We ate so much food! &nbsp;It was all really good! &nbsp;This is a picture of our dessert.<br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-jgYbsvdkSLU/VNgsLTC5jYI/AAAAAAAABZM/wL_muX-EaKo/s1600/20141231_211059-001.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-jgYbsvdkSLU/VNgsLTC5jYI/AAAAAAAABZM/wL_muX-EaKo/s1600/20141231_211059-001.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Fruit and pastry drizzled in honey and mint tea<br /><br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table>If you are ever in the Atlanta area and want to have an entertaining night out, you should give Imperial Fez a try.<br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-IxSN4Kmnl8Q/VNgtCXS204I/AAAAAAAABZU/SosTX_cj-V4/s1600/20141231_210739-001.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-IxSN4Kmnl8Q/VNgtCXS204I/AAAAAAAABZU/SosTX_cj-V4/s1600/20141231_210739-001.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hubs sportin' a beard!</td></tr></tbody></table><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/blogspot/AVHGS/~4/fKpmiZozCj4" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/blogspot/AVHGS/~3/fKpmiZozCj4/belly-dancing-and-moroccan-food.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (Tara)2http://meandthemexican.blogspot.com/2015/02/belly-dancing-and-moroccan-food.htmltag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6162462957069518522.post-7802594134891099869Sun, 26 Oct 2014 16:50:00 +00002016-01-24T16:31:20.360-05:00La Gata Part TwoWhooo! &nbsp;I better get moving on La Gata posts or else I'll be too far behind. &nbsp;Forgive me for not giving very in depth details, this is going to be to the point or I'll never finish! <br />advertisement<br /><!-- beginning of adsense --> <script async src="//pagead2.googlesyndication.com/pagead/js/adsbygoogle.js"></script><!-- Meandthemexican belowpost --><ins class="adsbygoogle" style="display:block" data-ad-client="ca-pub-5712206034924760" data-ad-slot="5099794007" data-ad-format="auto"></ins><script>(adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); </script><!-- end of adsense --><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>Mauriano<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-L54mjjUk4qE/VE0Z-ufHM8I/AAAAAAAABWM/3SCrYpORMiA/s1600/la%2Bgata%2Btelenovela%2B54.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-L54mjjUk4qE/VE0Z-ufHM8I/AAAAAAAABWM/3SCrYpORMiA/s1600/la%2Bgata%2Btelenovela%2B54.jpg" height="200" width="133" /></a></div><br />Pablo's brother.<br />Sneaky and secretly in love with La Gata.<br /><br />Not sure why but I love Mauriano!<br />Not really sure what it is about him.<br />The way he talks? &nbsp;His looks? The fact I tend to like bad boys? &nbsp; Hmmm, still figuring this one out and thought I'd let you all know I have a crush on him. &nbsp;Anyways, moving on.....<br /><br /><br /><br /><br />El Silencio<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-z4tbRnbDtns/VE0YKzcrypI/AAAAAAAABWA/AAyO93EqvZA/s1600/images.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-z4tbRnbDtns/VE0YKzcrypI/AAAAAAAABWA/AAyO93EqvZA/s1600/images.jpg" height="112" width="200" /></a></div><br />La Gata's father. &nbsp;He was in jail for a long time. &nbsp;He recently was released and has vowed to get revenge against the people who robbed him of everything.....which happens to be Pablo's family. &nbsp;La Gata has no idea that El Silencio is her father. &nbsp;He befriended this guy who is from the slum where La Gata lives and has since taken La Gata into his home and has been helping her with the twins and hired people to teach her the proper way to act at dinner parties etc. &nbsp;He is rich and HATES los Martinez de Negretes (Pablo's family). &nbsp;He does love La Gata though and is fighting for her to be respected and recognized as a member of a higher class!<br /><br />OH! and now that La Gata has money (or at least is living in a masion and her mystery father is rich) she has now transformed from<br />this<br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-xeeWC7OCP6o/VE0boau3-MI/AAAAAAAABWY/KMQm_RIKlnM/s1600/images%2B(1).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-xeeWC7OCP6o/VE0boau3-MI/AAAAAAAABWY/KMQm_RIKlnM/s1600/images%2B(1).jpg" height="134" width="200" /></a><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-DkWVF-KJPac/VE0bx07ZmhI/AAAAAAAABWg/oNjANGDKKcA/s1600/images%2B(2).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-DkWVF-KJPac/VE0bx07ZmhI/AAAAAAAABWg/oNjANGDKKcA/s1600/images%2B(2).jpg" height="149" width="200" /></a><br /><br />&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;to this <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>WOW! QUE GUAPA!!!!!<br />Which brings us to:<br />Fela<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-6_b4kBljpbE/VE0c6lvabOI/AAAAAAAABWs/vKIJTu3S0DY/s1600/images%2B(3).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-6_b4kBljpbE/VE0c6lvabOI/AAAAAAAABWs/vKIJTu3S0DY/s1600/images%2B(3).jpg" height="116" width="200" /></a></div><br />Let me start by saying, I know mental illness is no laughing matter. However, I couldn't help but to giggle just a tad when it comes to Fela. &nbsp;Fela is.... you guessed it! &nbsp;La Gata's mother. &nbsp;La Gata does not know this yet. &nbsp;She discovered Fela one day in the slum where she lives. &nbsp;Fela, always carries a baby doll around and insist it is her hija (her daughter). &nbsp;She's a tad looney. &nbsp;La Gata has a big heart though and always makes sure she is okay. &nbsp;Just recently, El Silencio (La Gata's dad) found out Fela is his wife who he thought had died. &nbsp;He's cleaned her all up and shes living in the mansion too. &nbsp;He took her to the doctor about her mental conditon and they are hoping her memory will start to come back. &nbsp;It has started to come back already. &nbsp;El Silencio y Fela know that La Gata is there daughter although.....they still haven't told her! &nbsp;UGH! What's the hold up?<br /><br />Ok, let me speed this up!<br />Augustin, Pablo's father knows that El Silencio is out for revenge. &nbsp;Augustin has turned to drinking. &nbsp;El Silencio recently made the family throw La Gata and Pablo an engagement party where they were suppose to apologize publicly due to the way they continuously humiliated La Gata. &nbsp;Augustin, got drunk and humiliated her more at the party and well.....it was a disaster. &nbsp;La Gata y El Silencio are furious. &nbsp;Oh and he is secretly in love with Fela. &nbsp;He knows her from the past although I'm still unclear as to how.<br /><br />There is also Monica<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-JVTJnRJrE6s/VE0fEwJ7qKI/AAAAAAAABW4/IfTFOxXfc_o/s1600/download.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-JVTJnRJrE6s/VE0fEwJ7qKI/AAAAAAAABW4/IfTFOxXfc_o/s1600/download.jpg" height="133" width="200" /></a></div>who is Pablo's cousin and also his EX-fiance. &nbsp; She's a good person although her mom and Mauriano fill her head with crazy stuff in hopes that she'll cause big enough problems that Pablo will take &nbsp;her back and La Gata will be left open for Mauriano to swoop in.<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />Virginia<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-LO0NDzd8ox0/VE0f_nksdkI/AAAAAAAABXA/45XrPQbNMhk/s1600/virginia-martinez-negrete_590x395.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-LO0NDzd8ox0/VE0f_nksdkI/AAAAAAAABXA/45XrPQbNMhk/s1600/virginia-martinez-negrete_590x395.jpg" height="133" width="200" /></a></div><br />Pablo and Mauriano's sister. &nbsp;She is blind. &nbsp;She is in love with Centavito, who is from the slum where La Gata lives. &nbsp;He is a nice guy but of course her mom is about to go ballistic and has <span style="background-color: yellow;">forbid</span>&nbsp;her from seeing him!<br /><br /><br /><br /><br />I'm starting to think I have taken on more than I can chew with this novela. &nbsp;There are story lines everywhere. There are other characters that I just can't get into right now. &nbsp; Hubby, son and I are really into this novela although it does get a little corny at times.<br />For example, &nbsp;how could so much miscommunication go on between Pablo and La Gata? &nbsp;Could he not send her money for a cell phone to keep in touch? &nbsp;I mean his family is rich! &nbsp;Could he not send her money to go to an internet cafe so they could keep in touch via email? &nbsp;How come La Gata's face was always sucia (dirty)? &nbsp;Could she not splash some water on her face before she went to meet Pablo daily? &nbsp;What about her braiding her hair? &nbsp;Couldn't he buy her some shoes and a brush? <br />These were some of the questions we had which made us giggle.<br />I get it. &nbsp;It's a novela. &nbsp;At this point it doesn't matter. &nbsp;We watched in the beginning because it was a bit humorous but well played Univision, you got us! &nbsp;We are hooked!<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/blogspot/AVHGS/~4/_tKaM0uoGkQ" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/blogspot/AVHGS/~3/_tKaM0uoGkQ/la-gata-part-two.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (Tara)0http://meandthemexican.blogspot.com/2014/10/la-gata-part-two.htmltag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6162462957069518522.post-2616929695875474404Fri, 17 Oct 2014 18:36:00 +00002016-01-24T16:55:18.921-05:00La Gata<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/--g2XgnQ51wg/VEEqFgnIKYI/AAAAAAAABUU/cpK4Nmp25R0/s1600/la-gata.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/--g2XgnQ51wg/VEEqFgnIKYI/AAAAAAAABUU/cpK4Nmp25R0/s1600/la-gata.jpg" height="223" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Image credit : gratisnovelas.net</td></tr></tbody></table>Okay, so this is an interesting novela for many reasons. &nbsp; I hate to say this, but it is so stupid it is epic! Hubby and I watched the 1st episode and laughed quite a bit. &nbsp;It was so ridiculous! &nbsp;Guess what though.... &nbsp; we are now hooked and tune in every night.<br /><br />Even our son is watching it with us. &nbsp;We are letting him count the time watching this novela towards his reading time. (Yay for creative but probably not the best parenting!) &nbsp;We set our tv on CC3 (closed captions in English). It's a win win situation. &nbsp;He is practicing his reading and hubby and I no longer hear repeatedly... "what is happening now?"<br /><br />So, what is the novela about? <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CwykBVnuliE/VEEu0ojdbvI/AAAAAAAABUk/O4Rlu5mVXXU/s1600/esmeralda_315x177.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CwykBVnuliE/VEEu0ojdbvI/AAAAAAAABUk/O4Rlu5mVXXU/s1600/esmeralda_315x177.jpg" height="224" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">It's about an extremely poor girl named, Esmeralda but whom everyone calls "La Gata" (stray cat). I'm assuming she got this name due to the fact she carries around a black cat all the time. &nbsp;La Gata was taken in at a young age by a lady named Dona Rita after La Gata lost both of her parents.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-EC4e8YcdV38/VEEwgY39reI/AAAAAAAABU0/MNjwYH81kZM/s1600/dona-rita-olea_655x438.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-EC4e8YcdV38/VEEwgY39reI/AAAAAAAABU0/MNjwYH81kZM/s1600/dona-rita-olea_655x438.jpg" height="133" width="200" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Image credit : &nbsp;Univision.com</td></tr></tbody></table> Dona Rita is sneaky, mean, y una abusadora! She made La Gata as well as some other kids she took in beg for money on the streets. &nbsp;If they didn't come home with enough money to make her happy, she was mean!!!<br /><br /> Advertisement <br /><!-- beginning of adsense --> <script async src="//pagead2.googlesyndication.com/pagead/js/adsbygoogle.js"></script><!-- Meandthemexican belowpost --><ins class="adsbygoogle" style="display:block" data-ad-client="ca-pub-5712206034924760" data-ad-slot="5099794007" data-ad-format="auto"></ins><script>(adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); </script><!-- end of adsense --><br /><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-a_K_QaYLbug/VEE0eUv3-0I/AAAAAAAABVA/0qKIv1DN774/s1600/vlcsnap-2014-05-06-12h23m38s134.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-a_K_QaYLbug/VEE0eUv3-0I/AAAAAAAABVA/0qKIv1DN774/s1600/vlcsnap-2014-05-06-12h23m38s134.png" height="111" width="200" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">La Gata and Pablo as kids &nbsp;</td></tr></tbody></table><br />While La Gata was suppose to be out begging for money she met a boy named Pablo. &nbsp;He taught her how to read. &nbsp;They had a good connection and built a really strong friendship. &nbsp;They would meet at a certain spot everyday and read, talk, play around. &nbsp;Eventually their childhood friendship turned into love.<br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-S_i0qshN5ig/VEE1ndIUAuI/AAAAAAAABVM/bp6O9DaNqzc/s1600/pablo-martinez-negrete_655x438.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-S_i0qshN5ig/VEE1ndIUAuI/AAAAAAAABVM/bp6O9DaNqzc/s1600/pablo-martinez-negrete_655x438.jpg" height="133" width="200" /></a></div><br /><br />Pablo is like really rich. &nbsp;I mean really really rich. &nbsp;He lives in a mansion, has servants, a chauffeur, goes to the best schools etc. Pablo and La Gata hide their little meetings because it's not cool<br />for someone like her to be hangin' with someone like him.<br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-g8GATmSlPW8/VEFbi3i_VHI/AAAAAAAABVc/Cg0ZvGSAEEg/s1600/la-gata-esmeralda-cruz-620x345.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-g8GATmSlPW8/VEFbi3i_VHI/AAAAAAAABVc/Cg0ZvGSAEEg/s1600/la-gata-esmeralda-cruz-620x345.jpg" height="178" width="320" /></a></div><br /><br />Ay! Yay! Yay!<br />Pablo's parents are LOCOS! &nbsp;Once the mom finds out about his son hanging out with La Gata, she goes ballistic! &nbsp;La mama de Pablo calls La Gata every name in the book and forbids him to see her.<br />See the cutie in the background? &nbsp;That's Pablo's brother, &nbsp;Mauriano. &nbsp;More about him later.<br /><br /><br />Okay, so Pablo decides to go to New York to study art. &nbsp;He and La Gata have plans to re-unite when he returns. &nbsp;Before he goes, they secretly wed. &nbsp;He goes to New York, she goes back to the slum where she lives. <br /><br />!! SURPRISE!! &nbsp;La Gata ends up finding out she is pregnant....with TWINS! <br />She goes to Pablo's house to let his parents know they are going to be grandparents. &nbsp;She figured they would finally accept her.<br />WRONG! &nbsp;It totally backfires. &nbsp;The parents have the marriage annulled.....secretly. <br /><br />So, she is waiting for Pablo to return from New York believing they will be one big happy family because she has the marriage certificate, they are married, and she's getting ready to have his children....bla..bla...bla....<br /><br />All the while, Pablo's family is planning some major deception tactics for when he returns. &nbsp;They basically tell Pablo that La Gata got married with another man and had kids with him!<br /><br />DA DUM DA!!!!!!!!!!!<br /><br />I'll leave it there for now.... &nbsp;There's lots to cover. &nbsp;I'm still missing a bunch of characters and story lines and I promise I'll get to them.<br /><br />Are you watching La Gata? &nbsp;I've almost got you caught up. &nbsp;Don't worry if you are not fluent in Spanish. &nbsp;Change the caption setting on your tv to CC3. &nbsp;I had no idea novelas were even available in English until I saw that it was available in English pop up on the screen. &nbsp;How cool is that! &nbsp;La Gata comes on Univision, Mon-Fri 7 p.m. Eastern time.<br /><br /><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/blogspot/AVHGS/~4/P114_mDFwrI" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/blogspot/AVHGS/~3/P114_mDFwrI/la-gata.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (Tara)1http://meandthemexican.blogspot.com/2014/10/la-gata.htmltag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6162462957069518522.post-1050736320126882251Sun, 05 Oct 2014 01:53:00 +00002016-01-24T16:52:29.422-05:00ProjectsYes, I've been MIA again. &nbsp;Why, you ask? &nbsp;Projects! &nbsp;We have been doing a TON of projects lately....and not home projects!<br />Our son is an advanced content science class this year. &nbsp;After getting some info from the teacher, &nbsp;I learned that he is solely being graded on his projects with a test thrown in here and there.<br /><br />Now, let me just say that I feel like I am being paid back for putting my parents through complete HELL my senior year. Have I ever mentioned I was not the best student? &nbsp;I had the potential but my priorities were all out of whack! &nbsp;Boys! &nbsp;Enough said. &nbsp;My parents really went above and beyond to make sure I graduated.&nbsp;I remember my dad going to the library and spending about $50 copying pages out of books that were not allowed to be checked out and my mother actually doing my language arts final paper because I was out doing... lord knows what! Apparently, I was not concerned about graduating.<br />My mom said I'd get paid back one day...<br />That day has arrived! &nbsp;Not only is this school year going to be FULL of Science projects but the Mexican insist on helping! <br /><br /><!-- beginning of adsense --> <script async src="//pagead2.googlesyndication.com/pagead/js/adsbygoogle.js"></script><!-- Meandthemexican belowpost --><ins class="adsbygoogle" style="display:block" data-ad-client="ca-pub-5712206034924760" data-ad-slot="5099794007" data-ad-format="auto"></ins><script>(adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); </script><!-- end of adsense --><br />So far we have completed 3 projects and I'm surprised the cops didn't show up at our house due to all the screaming and yelling. &nbsp;Yep, we had some disagreements. &nbsp;I went to and graduated from a school here in the states. &nbsp;My husband did not and has NEVER EVER done any type of school project before. &nbsp;I appreciate him wanting to help and actually I think he's understanding the concepts now. Our most recent project was his idea and it came out great!<br /><br />So, I figured I'd share <strike>our </strike>&nbsp;my son's projects along with the misadventures during the process. &nbsp;Luckily Pinterest and the internet have been a life saver! &nbsp;So many people have shared ideas and it really got our creative juices flowing on some of these projects.<br /><br />I've got 3 to catch y'all up on and the 1st was a doozie! &nbsp;What would you do for an "A"? &nbsp;I can't believe what we did for our first project in hopes of getting the best score possible!!! <br />To be continued...<br /><br /><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/blogspot/AVHGS/~4/uNBqlwEd9YY" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/blogspot/AVHGS/~3/uNBqlwEd9YY/projects.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (Tara)0http://meandthemexican.blogspot.com/2014/10/projects.htmltag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6162462957069518522.post-4050284147633882160Sun, 18 May 2014 18:15:00 +00002016-01-24T16:56:36.354-05:00Make Your Own Bath SaltsI wanted to share a super easy recipe for home made bath salts.<br /><br />Hubby has been sick with a cold. &nbsp;He's been taking some cold medicine. I've been following him around the house with a cotton ball infused with drops of eucalyptus oil and it's proved to be challenging! Why will he not cooperate with me? &nbsp; So what better time than now to whip up some bath salts and trick him into inhaling the relaxing scent of lavender and &nbsp;invigorating scent of eucalyptus, which is also amazing for colds! &nbsp;What an amazing wife I'll be when I draw him a warm bath tonight. &nbsp;I've got it all figured out. &nbsp;He will NOT draw himself a bath (because you know....he's a man and all.... and sometimes the silly machisimo ideas he has buried deep down come out to play) but if I do it, then it's okay.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;">All you need is:</div><div style="text-align: center;">Epsom salt</div><div style="text-align: center;">and&nbsp;</div><div style="text-align: center;">your favorite essential oil(s).</div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0_3C6gnvlnk/U3jqDxwYAQI/AAAAAAAABRI/ssyN_Z8fJkE/s1600/20140518_114806.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0_3C6gnvlnk/U3jqDxwYAQI/AAAAAAAABRI/ssyN_Z8fJkE/s1600/20140518_114806.jpg" height="320" width="159" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><br />Pour 3 cups of Epsom salt into a bowl.<br />Add your drops of oil and mix well. <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-aJDkmVThdes/U3jxHIxueYI/AAAAAAAABRk/_vHI7y3HZJs/s1600/Downloads.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-aJDkmVThdes/U3jxHIxueYI/AAAAAAAABRk/_vHI7y3HZJs/s1600/Downloads.jpg" height="225" width="400" /></a></div><br /><br />&nbsp;I added 15 drops of lavender and 10 drops of eucalyptus.<br />It may not seem like a lot of oil compared to the amount of salt you are<br />using but trust me..... a little goes a LONG way with essential oils.<br /><br />Advertisement <br /><!-- beginning of adsense --> <script async src="//pagead2.googlesyndication.com/pagead/js/adsbygoogle.js"></script><!-- Meandthemexican belowpost --><ins class="adsbygoogle" style="display:block" data-ad-client="ca-pub-5712206034924760" data-ad-slot="5099794007" data-ad-format="auto"></ins><script>(adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); </script><!-- end of adsense --><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Txzqu2yjRQg/U3jx0_hROXI/AAAAAAAABRs/V2B0ppCPIYk/s1600/20140518_115521.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Txzqu2yjRQg/U3jx0_hROXI/AAAAAAAABRs/V2B0ppCPIYk/s1600/20140518_115521.jpg" height="320" width="163" /></a><br /><br /><br />Next I poured my salts into an empty bottle.<br />Empty wine bottles or mason jars would be pretty but<br />any container will do. &nbsp;Make sure to keep your container closed.<br /><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8T2AwBNDklU/U3j1E3w_REI/AAAAAAAABR4/QcswWxmePIs/s1600/20140518_115642.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8T2AwBNDklU/U3j1E3w_REI/AAAAAAAABR4/QcswWxmePIs/s1600/20140518_115642.jpg" height="400" width="148" /></a><br /><br />You can always add some dried lavender flowers to<br />the salt to make it even prettier if you want.<br /><br /><br />Some benefits of Epsom salt baths are the elimination of toxins from the body, relaxation, and it is full of magnesium which is a mineral our bodies need!<br /><br />To use, just add 1/4 to 1/2 cup of salt to bath tub of warm water. Soak, relax, and enjoy some aromatherapy.<br /><br />So, I'm hoping after hubby's bath tonight he'll be able to breathe better,<br />feel relaxed, and sleep sound.<br /><br />What are some of your favorite essential oil combinations? &nbsp; I'm thinking of branching out a bit and trying to make a homemade body scrub next. &nbsp;Now, how am I going to get him to use that.... hmmm...<br /><br /><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/blogspot/AVHGS/~4/2UnJdCNWAlA" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/blogspot/AVHGS/~3/2UnJdCNWAlA/make-your-own-bath-salts.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (Tara)1http://meandthemexican.blogspot.com/2014/05/make-your-own-bath-salts.htmltag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6162462957069518522.post-2470804887301492219Sun, 27 Apr 2014 16:45:00 +00002016-01-24T16:58:16.049-05:00Puerto Rico continued...They say 1st &nbsp;impressions are everything so that was totally what I was going for.... a great 1st (visual) impression. &nbsp;Although the ex-wife and I have a great relationship over the phone I had &nbsp;never met her in person and had never even seen a picture of her. &nbsp; Sometimes people can be very different in person and I was nervous. &nbsp; We talk pretty often. &nbsp;We always make a point to speak to one another when hubby's son calls or vise versa. &nbsp;She always sends our son a birthday gift and she knows that I truly care for and want the best for their son. It's always been about the kids. &nbsp;No drama, no fighting, just a group of parents trying to do their best for the kids... &nbsp; Thank goodness we've never had any issues. <br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-fwJRM4qAFnE/U0tKB6ky-xI/AAAAAAAABNk/UNJ_tl79b0s/s1600/20131026_120437.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-fwJRM4qAFnE/U0tKB6ky-xI/AAAAAAAABNk/UNJ_tl79b0s/s1600/20131026_120437.jpg" height="400" width="300" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Waiting for takeoff. &nbsp;Ready to meet his older brother!</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><br />I was a bundle of nerves when the plane landed. &nbsp;I knew she was picking us up at the airport. &nbsp;All the nervous energy I was carrying was completely gone once she grabbed me and gave me a huge hug. &nbsp;Hubby and our son hopped in the back seat and I rode in the front seat with her as we headed to pick up their son. (I hate saying "our son" and "their son", so from here on out I will refer to hubby and ex-wife's son as my step son.)<br /><br />I really can't believe it myself. &nbsp;The great relationship we had wasn't just over the phone so far. &nbsp;It was in person too! It was very easy to get along with her. &nbsp;We laughed a lot on our drive back to her house and chatted the whole time. The ex was as sweet as ever to me and our son. &nbsp;She bent over backwards making<br />us feel welcomed. &nbsp;Heck, she made us feel like family!!!!<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xDsWRA7MRyw/U0tL5x9nOpI/AAAAAAAABNw/3-6hssI6uaw/s1600/20131026_170320.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xDsWRA7MRyw/U0tL5x9nOpI/AAAAAAAABNw/3-6hssI6uaw/s1600/20131026_170320.jpg" height="400" width="388" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Driving up into the mountains</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><br />Now for the father son reunion.... &nbsp;What a beautiful moment! &nbsp;It was so awesome to see my husband and his 1st born embrace each other with such a strong hug that seemed to last forever. &nbsp;My step son is such a smart and handsome young man. &nbsp;He greeted me with open arms and made me feel just as welcomed as his mom did. &nbsp;I know my little guy was full of emotion as well. &nbsp;Meeting his big brother for the first time was a big deal. &nbsp;As you can see, the first hour was emotional to say the least.<br /><br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3fBlQyO3n9c/U0yJ7fKvcwI/AAAAAAAABOE/K1gXjLJDwOo/s1600/20131027_104230.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3fBlQyO3n9c/U0yJ7fKvcwI/AAAAAAAABOE/K1gXjLJDwOo/s1600/20131027_104230.jpg" height="400" width="300" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Banana trees</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><br />I'm sorry I do not have a drama filled story to make this post way more interesting but luckily for the 5 of us (me, her, hubby, and the 2 sons) it was an awesome, drama-LESS, FUN filled, AMAZING week! &nbsp;I'm sure she was just as nervous as I was. &nbsp;I really can't say how grateful I am to have such a good relationship with my husband's ex-wife! &nbsp;I know, it's sounds crazy.... &nbsp;but it's true. &nbsp;We always laugh at the fact that people can't believe how well we get a long. &nbsp;I'm also very grateful that I have a great relationship with my step-son as well. I'm so glad that he gets excited to tell me things that are going on in his life and is always very respectful and an all around great young man. &nbsp; I'm happy that he and his brother are building a relationship. &nbsp;It is a little tough at times due to the age difference but my step-son and son are making it work in their own way. &nbsp;You can definitely hear the connection when they talk on the phone and that makes my heart smile!<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wP80hS44Dss/U0yLpN8lCiI/AAAAAAAABOQ/yrBgqSwr-Rg/s1600/20131028_113006.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wP80hS44Dss/U0yLpN8lCiI/AAAAAAAABOQ/yrBgqSwr-Rg/s1600/20131028_113006.jpg" height="363" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sign says, "Danger! Possible Caimans in the area."</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><br />Advertisement <br /><!-- beginning of adsense --> <script async src="//pagead2.googlesyndication.com/pagead/js/adsbygoogle.js"></script><!-- Meandthemexican belowpost --><ins class="adsbygoogle" style="display:block" data-ad-client="ca-pub-5712206034924760" data-ad-slot="5099794007" data-ad-format="auto"></ins><script>(adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); </script><!-- end of adsense --><br />For the 1st part of the week we stayed close to where they lived in a place his ex wife recommended. &nbsp;(I feel so crazy saying ex, exwife, bla bla because I consider her my friend and wish I could just type her name. &nbsp;Due to privacy I'm not going to though, so just bare with me.) &nbsp;It was really nice and I think we were the only guests staying there. &nbsp;It was up in the mountains and was beautiful. &nbsp;My step son came and stayed with us at night and during the day all of us were out and about exploring the city where they live.<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-S-VY21hbecc/U0yPx2HlAxI/AAAAAAAABOo/6-A8m1dhS_U/s1600/20131029_091252.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-S-VY21hbecc/U0yPx2HlAxI/AAAAAAAABOo/6-A8m1dhS_U/s1600/20131029_091252.jpg" height="400" width="336" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">We had the pool to ourselves &nbsp;:)<br /><br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table>We enjoyed the city they live in. &nbsp;It was beautiful being up in the mountains. &nbsp;We tried some different restaurants and I got to try "mofongo" for the 1st time. &nbsp;I've always wanted to try it. &nbsp;I think it's the name. &nbsp;Mofongo just sounds cool to me..... &nbsp;I'm happy to report, it was delicious! &nbsp;We were also invited over to my step son's abuela's house. &nbsp;The whole family came over and were super nice to us. &nbsp; Everyone brought food and I got to try a lot of the traditional Puerto Rican dishes. &nbsp;We had a great time.<br /><br />We also took a day trip to Old San Juan. &nbsp;It is beautiful there! &nbsp;(I'm beginning to wonder if there are any areas of P.R. that aren't beautiful!) &nbsp;Anyways, there was TONS to see and do! &nbsp;We did a lot of the touristy things and had helados de coco which were sooooo good. &nbsp;I'm not a huge coconut fan, but they really took me by surprise.<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-viPcSyLNdpw/U10nVHlRb1I/AAAAAAAABO8/hBeR1MgJbIo/s1600/20131030_154349.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-viPcSyLNdpw/U10nVHlRb1I/AAAAAAAABO8/hBeR1MgJbIo/s1600/20131030_154349.jpg" height="400" width="300" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Enjoying &nbsp;Old San Juan</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_2OjHO90unY/U10qMC-NXcI/AAAAAAAABPI/zZ8DD9p_tKE/s1600/20131030_135757.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_2OjHO90unY/U10qMC-NXcI/AAAAAAAABPI/zZ8DD9p_tKE/s1600/20131030_135757.jpg" height="400" width="300" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Touring the forts in Old San Juan</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-hivKVTRbtJU/U10rDuoAnhI/AAAAAAAABPM/CxNGZNtD2xA/s1600/20131030_161305.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-hivKVTRbtJU/U10rDuoAnhI/AAAAAAAABPM/CxNGZNtD2xA/s1600/20131030_161305.jpg" height="400" width="300" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I didn't want to leave!</td></tr></tbody></table>Old San Juan was amazing with its gorgeous streets and architecture. &nbsp;I could have stayed there longer but we were trying to pack in a lot in a short amount of time. &nbsp;Not only were we sight seeing but catching up with family and trying to give hubby and his son plenty of one on one time.<br /><br />We also made it out to Fajardo. &nbsp;We all stayed together in a little condo ex-wife's (ughhh! wish i could say her name) sister recommended. &nbsp;It was on the beach and you could see El Yunque rain forest from our balcony! &nbsp;We didn't have enough time to visit El Yunque but will definitely go there on our next trip. &nbsp;The nature in Puerto Rico is amazing!!!!<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zWjiIPkaUt4/U10sUQwp79I/AAAAAAAABPY/4PmlVlRwq_o/s1600/20131102_160824.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zWjiIPkaUt4/U10sUQwp79I/AAAAAAAABPY/4PmlVlRwq_o/s1600/20131102_160824.jpg" height="400" width="300" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Another flag to add to his collection!</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-6zvfvf87BRc/U10sa0gx05I/AAAAAAAABPg/V3ox1EU3mic/s1600/20131031_165406.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-6zvfvf87BRc/U10sa0gx05I/AAAAAAAABPg/V3ox1EU3mic/s1600/20131031_165406.jpg" height="400" width="300" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I was a happy camper to say the least!</td></tr></tbody></table>There was no-one on the beach! &nbsp;It was like our own private island! &nbsp;I don't know if it was the area we were in or the time of year we went, but note to self..... go again....same time.....same beach! &nbsp;My son was in awe of all the coconuts laying around and all the sand to play in! &nbsp;The water was warm and clear. &nbsp;It was a little overcast during our stay but, &nbsp;whose complaining?<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ECiwGobEngk/U10tcEpYlsI/AAAAAAAABPw/Bko-rpfIyGw/s1600/20131031_165753.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ECiwGobEngk/U10tcEpYlsI/AAAAAAAABPw/Bko-rpfIyGw/s1600/20131031_165753.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></div><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-TepVqEkmTOY/U10tqAOSoFI/AAAAAAAABP4/T4ht6jTHC4Y/s1600/20131102_102841.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-TepVqEkmTOY/U10tqAOSoFI/AAAAAAAABP4/T4ht6jTHC4Y/s1600/20131102_102841.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></div><br />We went for a walk along the beach and found this area that was so beautiful. (pic below) &nbsp;The pics I took really didn't do it justice. &nbsp;I felt like I was on the television show "Gilligan's Island!"<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-UGwmUEbs0Ng/U10uOD7AAhI/AAAAAAAABQA/vbs8HEsJ5cI/s1600/20131102_104233.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-UGwmUEbs0Ng/U10uOD7AAhI/AAAAAAAABQA/vbs8HEsJ5cI/s1600/20131102_104233.jpg" height="400" width="300" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">behind those trees, the water continued and there was a little pond with a stream</td></tr></tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Kp9XosN2wUQ/U10uyA3DCAI/AAAAAAAABQI/nSZWZXuUzBk/s1600/20131102_115625.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Kp9XosN2wUQ/U10uyA3DCAI/AAAAAAAABQI/nSZWZXuUzBk/s1600/20131102_115625.jpg" height="400" width="300" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">this bird was looking for fish, this is the area behind all the trees on pic above.</td></tr></tbody></table>We also took a night tour through a nature conservation center. &nbsp;They took us to a light house and to the bio-luminescence bay. &nbsp;Now that was SUPER COOL! I wish I had the pictures to show you but I think I've posted enough....besides those are on hubby's external hard drive and he has it with him at the moment.<br />If you've never heard of the bio-luminescence bay you should look it up. &nbsp;It was amazing. <br /><br />The tour guide had us walk a mile long bridge through the mangroves. &nbsp;We finally made it out to open water and he gave us these long sticks. &nbsp;Fluorescent light appears where ever you swirled your stick &nbsp;(made movement) in the water. &nbsp;Tiny organisms that live in the water make this happen. &nbsp; I do not remember exactly how but it was an experience I'll never forget. <br /><br />Okay, this post is like super duper long and I'll be surprised if most of you made it this far.<br /><br />The conclusion is this.<br /><br />We had an amazing time. &nbsp;Our family in Puerto Rico are amazing! &nbsp;The island is amazing! We can't wait to go back and if you have the chance you should go too! &nbsp;Oh, and don't be scared of ex-wives. &nbsp;Some can be amazing if given the chance!<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rxtG-a5qyrU/U10xIJifbOI/AAAAAAAABQU/qlXuMUbWbks/s1600/20131103_090504.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rxtG-a5qyrU/U10xIJifbOI/AAAAAAAABQU/qlXuMUbWbks/s1600/20131103_090504.jpg" height="400" width="300" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The hardest part was saying good bye and coming home!</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/blogspot/AVHGS/~4/D2UQ22shUig" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/blogspot/AVHGS/~3/D2UQ22shUig/they-say-1st-are-everything-so-that-was.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (Tara)4http://meandthemexican.blogspot.com/2014/04/they-say-1st-are-everything-so-that-was.htmltag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6162462957069518522.post-5224926707177277883Mon, 14 Apr 2014 00:56:00 +00002016-01-24T16:59:15.589-05:00I'm BackNo for real..... &nbsp;I really am this time.<br /><br />Don't believe me? &nbsp;I'll prove it! &nbsp; I'm going to be posting once a week and if I don't... CALL ME OUT! I need to be held responsible. &nbsp;So, where should I begin....<br /><br />Well, as most of you know we went to Puerto Rico. &nbsp;I was determined to lose weight before we went. &nbsp;I was extremely motivated because I was going to meet hubby's ex-wife and his son from his 1st marriage, &nbsp;in person for the 1st time. &nbsp;Nothing screams motivation more than ex-wife!!!<br /><br />Whew! &nbsp;If only you guys could have seen me! &nbsp;I was counting calories, counting carbs, and drinking water only! &nbsp;I was exercising daily. &nbsp;On weekends, hubby and I would go to the park and walk 2 to 3 miles. &nbsp;On weekdays I was usually walking around the neighborhood for an hour or doing Jillian Michael's cardio. &nbsp;Let me mention that her video was hard as hell in the beginning. &nbsp;I'm sure I was swearing at the t.v. quite a bit. &nbsp;I had plenty of choice words for her. &nbsp;Oh! and who in the world came up with the name "burpee" for an exercise? &nbsp;I hated hearing her say, "and now, my favorite... BURPEES!" &nbsp;Not only were those hard but I just pictured people standing in a line burping (if only burpees were that easy). &nbsp;At least it gave me something to think about other than the thought of not being able to breathe and gasping for air. <br /><br />Advertisement <br /><!-- beginning of adsense --> <script async src="//pagead2.googlesyndication.com/pagead/js/adsbygoogle.js"></script><!-- Meandthemexican belowpost --><ins class="adsbygoogle" style="display:block" data-ad-client="ca-pub-5712206034924760" data-ad-slot="5099794007" data-ad-format="auto"></ins><script>(adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); </script><!-- end of adsense --><br />People were starting to notice my weight loss and when you feel your clothes fitting looser, well that is just plain awesome! &nbsp;In all I lost a total of 23 lbs. and I was pretty proud of my self.<br /><br />After a small shopping spree and getting my hair done I was ready to meet the ex.<br /><br />To be continued....<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/blogspot/AVHGS/~4/EO4KJfVoFBA" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/blogspot/AVHGS/~3/EO4KJfVoFBA/im-back.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (Tara)7http://meandthemexican.blogspot.com/2014/04/im-back.htmltag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6162462957069518522.post-1051006979445269723Sat, 07 Dec 2013 04:27:00 +00002016-01-24T17:00:25.122-05:00Quick UpdateHola!!!!<br /><br />Where has the time gone? &nbsp;Seems like this year has flown by and I have seriously neglected my blog.<br /><br />So, I have tons of photos and stories I want to share. &nbsp;I honestly do not have time at the moment.... so here is a quick update and I promise to share some pics and stories soon.<br /><br />Hubby has been traveling to Mexico quite a bit lately. &nbsp;On his last trip he took a lot of amazing pictures of his little pueblo. &nbsp;What a beautiful place! &nbsp;I want to share them all with you but until then, feel free to check out his town's <a href="http://www.sanantoniodelacascada.com/" target="_blank">website</a>. &nbsp;The pics you see there were taken by his truly. &nbsp;Visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.sanantoniodelacascada.com/galeria.php" target="_blank">la galeria</a>&nbsp;to skip straight to the pics or&nbsp;<a href="http://www.sanantoniodelacascada.com/galeria.php" target="_blank">videos</a>&nbsp;to watch some footage of &nbsp;him walking through some really clear water until he finds the spot it is actually coming out of the ground (Exciting! I know!)<br /><br />Advertisement <br /><!-- beginning of adsense --> <script async src="//pagead2.googlesyndication.com/pagead/js/adsbygoogle.js"></script><!-- Meandthemexican belowpost --><ins class="adsbygoogle" style="display:block" data-ad-client="ca-pub-5712206034924760" data-ad-slot="5099794007" data-ad-format="auto"></ins><script>(adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); </script><!-- end of adsense --><br />So on his way back from Mexico, he brought tons of artesenia Mexicana (Mexican art). &nbsp;Our living room was full of it for about a month before I lost it and demanded we come up with a plan to get it cleared out. &nbsp;See if any Mexican restaurants were interested in buying it? &nbsp;Putting it up on Ebay? &nbsp;Set up shop at the flea market? &nbsp;We did all three.<br /><br />Which brings me to our flea market adventure. &nbsp;This will definitely require it's own separate post. &nbsp;Let me just say this. &nbsp;I have never seen so many women wearing high heels while pushing a baby stroller. &nbsp;That is just for starters. &nbsp;Trust me, it is a post worth reading and I promise to let it all out soon...<br /><br />We went to Puerto Rico and it was amazing. &nbsp;We went for two reasons. &nbsp;One, I'm going to keep private for now and two, to enjoy the beautiful island. &nbsp;It was absolutely gorgeous and I felt like I was in paradise. &nbsp;For the 1st part of the week we stayed up in the mountainous area and the 2nd part of the week we were at the beach. &nbsp;It was amazing. &nbsp;I have lots of pics and thoughts to share. &nbsp;Post will come soon. &nbsp;Promise!<br /><br />I haven't been exercising. &nbsp;I've strayed from my diet some. &nbsp;The weight is coming off extremely slow. &nbsp;Total loss is 25 lbs. &nbsp;We made it past Thanksgiving. &nbsp;After Christmas, I'm going to step it up a gear and get the rest of this weight off! &nbsp;I'm not quitting.<br /><br />Is this how a blog comes to an end? &nbsp;You start posting less and less? &nbsp;Hopefully I'll receive some words of encouragement to keep going. &nbsp;I love the blog-o-sphere and don't think I'm ready to give it up...not yet. <br /><br />Hope everyone is doing great!<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/blogspot/AVHGS/~4/rbwQhG6ybGI" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/blogspot/AVHGS/~3/rbwQhG6ybGI/quick-update.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (Tara)7http://meandthemexican.blogspot.com/2013/12/quick-update.htmltag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6162462957069518522.post-2820307364088032700Sun, 06 Oct 2013 23:48:00 +00002016-01-24T17:01:31.598-05:00Corazon de Campeon Official Music VideoHave you seen the official Corazon de Campeon music video by award winning Mexican sibling duo Jesse and Joy? &nbsp;I saw it the other day and was very impressed. &nbsp;You can feel the passion they share with the rest of the world when it comes to the most popular sport worldwide..... SOCCER!<br /><br />In April, Latin Grammy winners Jesse and Joy released Corazon de Campeon (a soccer anthem) dedicated to Mexican National team fans in the U.S.. &nbsp;It has gotten everyone excited about soccer and proves that there is no language or cultural barriers when it comes to this beloved sport.<br /><br />I really love this video! &nbsp;I just wanted to mention that most of the scenes, including the one of the players entering the field, were shot earlier this year in Barcelona, Spain. &nbsp;The opening images of the Aztecs, Revolutionaries, and the barber scene were shot in Mexico City. <br /><br />Take a look at this awesome music video. &nbsp;What are you waiting for?<br /><br />Advertisement <br /><!-- beginning of adsense --> <script async src="//pagead2.googlesyndication.com/pagead/js/adsbygoogle.js"></script><!-- Meandthemexican belowpost --><ins class="adsbygoogle" style="display:block" data-ad-client="ca-pub-5712206034924760" data-ad-slot="5099794007" data-ad-format="auto"></ins><script>(adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); </script><!-- end of adsense --><br /><iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/E_8G_rH2MKI" width="560"></iframe> <br /><br />Jesse and Joy named the song Corazon de Campeon because they consider all soccer fans champions at heart! Along with their friends at AT&amp;T they hope to celebrate team's and fan's everyday victories. &nbsp;Just like star players, the fans are fighters and don't ever give up! &nbsp; Do you have un #CorazonCampeon ?<br /><br />To learn more about about what AT&amp;T is doing for the Mexican National Team, check out&nbsp;<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Verdana; font-size: 13px;">&nbsp;</span><a href="http://www.corazondecampeon.net/" style="color: #1155cc; font-family: Verdana; font-size: 13px;" target="_blank">http://www.corazondecampeon.<wbr></wbr>net</a><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Verdana; font-size: 13px;">/ <b>and their facebook page </b>&nbsp;</span><a href="https://www.facebook.com/attlatino" style="color: #1155cc; font-family: Verdana; font-size: 13px;" target="_blank">https://www.facebook.<wbr></wbr>com/attlatino</a><br /><div class="im" style="background-color: white; color: #500050; font-family: Verdana; font-size: 13px;"></div><br />I would love to know what you thought of the Corazon de Campeon music video.<br /><br /><br /><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/blogspot/AVHGS/~4/xr5214fnoro" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/blogspot/AVHGS/~3/xr5214fnoro/corazon-de-campeon-official-music-video.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (Tara)2http://meandthemexican.blogspot.com/2013/10/corazon-de-campeon-official-music-video.htmltag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6162462957069518522.post-7751897986880006288Sun, 25 Aug 2013 13:22:00 +00002013-08-25T09:26:59.264-04:00Don't Stop, Get it! Get it!Hola a todos! &nbsp;Just wanted to say I've missed my blog and all my fellow bloggers and readers. &nbsp;I've been so busy with my little one's back to school routine and my weight loss goals that I've kind of put the blog on the back burner. <br /><br />Quick update. <br /><br />I'm down 13 pounds! &nbsp;Woot woot! &nbsp;I was down 15 but one week of no exercising and no calorie counting added two pounds back. &nbsp;So, it's time to step it up and get back to doing things the right way.<br />I must say that the way my clothes are fitting now is motivation enough not to stop. &nbsp;As much as I hate to exercise, I love the feeling afterwards. &nbsp;Planning is the key here. &nbsp;Being prepared with what I'm going to eat for the day is what really helps me stay on track. &nbsp;Keep the good vibes coming because I don't plan on stopping.<br /><br />The Mexican ran into some old friends of his at Wal-mart and invited them over for dinner. &nbsp;I've struck up a friendship with the lady. &nbsp;She has a son the same age as mine and they get a long great. &nbsp; We've had many play dates with just her, I, and the boys. &nbsp;Needless to say, my Spanish is getting a great workout. &nbsp;She speaks very little English and we speak mostly in Spanish. I've been very happy about this. &nbsp;She is learning some English from me and I'm able to keep up my skills. &nbsp;The best part though is a new friendship!<br /><br />As some of you know, my husband has an extremely hard time staying still. &nbsp;His mind is always on the go.... He's always got something cooking (not literally). &nbsp;We've got some exciting plans that I hope I can share with everyone very soon.<br /><br />My little one is back in school and I LOVE his teacher. &nbsp;So far, we've had a great start to the school year. &nbsp;I didn't talk about it much last year, but I had some issues with his teacher last year. &nbsp;Nothing major, but this year's teacher has left my mind at ease and everything is going great so far.<br /><br />I love my job! &nbsp;Let me just <strike>say</strike>&nbsp;yell that one more time.... &nbsp;I LOVE MY JOB! &nbsp;Wow, what a difference in my family life and mood to be working in a great office with a great doctor. &nbsp;I didn't talk about this much last year either, but I was extremely unhappy at my past job. <br /><br />My "About Me, Blogroll, Contact Me" and other things have disappeared from my blog! I don't know how or why.... &nbsp;trying to resolve this. &nbsp;I'm not very techy, (is that a word?) but hubs is going to try and help me discover what I've done when he can.... I hope to get it back up soon.<br /><br />So, that was a quick update as to what is going on in my little corner of the world. &nbsp;I hope everyone is doing great. &nbsp;I'm going to try and put together some posts ahead of time so that way I post more regular.<br /><br />Abrazos to all!<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/blogspot/AVHGS/~4/fDA4iN7GLdc" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/blogspot/AVHGS/~3/fDA4iN7GLdc/dont-stop-get-it-get-it.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (Tara)5http://meandthemexican.blogspot.com/2013/08/dont-stop-get-it-get-it.htmltag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6162462957069518522.post-2153539679741972208Thu, 25 Jul 2013 02:56:00 +00002013-07-24T22:56:37.168-04:00The Mexican Dress Mission!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Hubby recently went to Mexico. &nbsp;During one of our phone conversations while he was there, he told me his sister was sending me a dress. &nbsp;"What kind of dress?", I asked. &nbsp;</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Husband: &nbsp;"I don't know, it's a Mexican dress."</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Me: &nbsp;"Will it fit?"<br />Husband: &nbsp;"I think so, it stretches. &nbsp;It's big."</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Me: "Okay, good!"</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">It's no secret that I am gordita. &nbsp;So the above conversation was by no means offensive to me. &nbsp;I was actually breathing a sigh of relief when he told me, "It stretches!"</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Anyways, here is the dress........ (which I absolutely love...)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-dLvMx7ONJ-8/UfCJa6Ta_DI/AAAAAAAABMI/b5Ksp05ca2c/s1600/dress.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-dLvMx7ONJ-8/UfCJa6Ta_DI/AAAAAAAABMI/b5Ksp05ca2c/s400/dress.jpg" width="278" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Did it fit?</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">NO!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I could barely squeeze into it. &nbsp;Needless to say I was beyond disappointed.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I've tried all these crazy diets en el pasado. &nbsp;I think I've always been searching for a quick fix! &nbsp;But recently I've been feeling depressed, tired, moody. &nbsp;I'm out of breath easier, I can't sleep good at night. &nbsp;In all honesty, being "gordita" has never bothered me that much. &nbsp;You can find all kinds of stylish plus size clothes!&nbsp;</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">The side effects of being gordita is a different story. &nbsp;I don't like the way I've been feeling.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">So, around 3 weeks ago I decided to make a change. &nbsp;For me! &nbsp;</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I decided to lose some weight. &nbsp;My goal is 50 lbs. &nbsp;</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">It is taking up a lot of my time. &nbsp;I'm trying to stay within a certain calorie range, eat cleaner and healthier. &nbsp;Oh and exercise! &nbsp;Have I ever mentioned how much I hate to exercise!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Luckily, some of my friends on Facebook and Instagram and even a certain blogger have given me lots of inspiration. &nbsp;Preparedness is the key...exercise is a must!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I'm on my 3rd week now and have lost a total of 10 lbs! &nbsp;It may not sound like a lot to some but for me it is major. &nbsp;I know that the weight will come off a little slower due to my age and under active thyroid, but I've got to do this.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-tzjhrO5ufuI/UfCRBUCiuGI/AAAAAAAABMs/sszWzMuSpF8/s1600/20130714_112434.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="283" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-tzjhrO5ufuI/UfCRBUCiuGI/AAAAAAAABMs/sszWzMuSpF8/s400/20130714_112434.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I took this pic when I was down 6 lbs. &nbsp;Happy to say I'm now down 10! &nbsp;Time to add four more marbles to the jar.</td></tr></tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I had to have a serious talk with "The Mexican" before I started. &nbsp; I had to prepare him for my journey. &nbsp;I told him to not ask me to make him some awesomely delicious meal while I'm trying to do this. &nbsp;For once, he will have to heat up his own tortillas or fix his own rice because "carbs" are NOT my friend and I do not want to be tempted.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">My husband has been extremely supportive! &nbsp;I make my food and he is welcome to eat what I eat. &nbsp;If he wants something different he makes it himself. &nbsp;On the weekends we go to our local park and walk four miles. &nbsp;</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-HctClZ6rW-k/UfCPvCubU3I/AAAAAAAABMU/vdYGPfHfY1Q/s1600/park.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-HctClZ6rW-k/UfCPvCubU3I/AAAAAAAABMU/vdYGPfHfY1Q/s400/park.jpg" width="332" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This is part of the trail we walk on the weekends.</td></tr></tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">During the week, I do this...........................</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-pDC8NMy91_M/UfCQItTP2iI/AAAAAAAABMc/s92n0eMiTkY/s1600/20130724_182335.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-pDC8NMy91_M/UfCQItTP2iI/AAAAAAAABMc/s92n0eMiTkY/s400/20130724_182335.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Glad I hung on to this DVD, I've had it for about 4 years but never opened it until 3 weeks ago.<br /><br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Finally! &nbsp;I have made Jillian my bitch! &nbsp;Ok, that sounded harsh..... but for someone who hasn't exercised in a couple of years, this work out is hard as hell! &nbsp;When I first started it I could only get through fifteen minutes of it. &nbsp;Thank goodness I did not give up! &nbsp;I can do the whole work out now! &nbsp;It's still kickin' my bootay! &nbsp;I can now do all the burpees. &nbsp;I remember when I started I thought I was going to pass out after doing 3. &nbsp;Who in the heck came up with the name burpee? &nbsp;I always think of people burping.... &nbsp;Ok, I'm straying from the topic.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I've taken a "before" picture of me sqwooshed into the Mexican dress..... &nbsp;I'll post it once I reach my goal weight and an "after" picture to go along with it.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Send me positive vibes porfa! &nbsp;The Mexican dress mission has begun..... &nbsp;</div><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/blogspot/AVHGS/~4/E2cldALxzws" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/blogspot/AVHGS/~3/E2cldALxzws/the-mexican-dress-mission.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (Tara)6http://meandthemexican.blogspot.com/2013/07/the-mexican-dress-mission.htmltag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6162462957069518522.post-4955128580467139513Sun, 23 Jun 2013 02:32:00 +00002013-06-22T22:33:02.762-04:00Panama City Beach<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>If you follow us on Facebook you know that we recently went on vacation. &nbsp;We went to Panama City, Florida. &nbsp;The beach was beautiful! &nbsp;We had a really great time. &nbsp;I thought I'd share some highlights from our trip.<br /><br />Panama City is known for it's emerald green waters and soft white sand. &nbsp;It really is a beautiful beach. &nbsp;We had so much fun playing in the sand and swimming in the pool and ocean.<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-UvQcBUb8xn0/UcZGXqMPfKI/AAAAAAAABIw/A9qrNp0VT6U/s1600/061212112814.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-UvQcBUb8xn0/UcZGXqMPfKI/AAAAAAAABIw/A9qrNp0VT6U/s400/061212112814.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Panama City Beach, Florida</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><br />We went on a "Seafari" which is basically an educational boat ride about sea life. &nbsp;We boarded the boat and got to see some pretty cool things like Sea Gulls (which we fed), Osprey birds, Dolphins, Horseshoe Crabs, and they even drug a net and pulled it up for the kids to explore. &nbsp;There were Sea Horses, Flounders, and a ton of other stuff. &nbsp;It was really cool!<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dw2bMIolb5U/UcZR9DNFDVI/AAAAAAAABKA/8YkbV5eaGmY/s1600/P6120107.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dw2bMIolb5U/UcZR9DNFDVI/AAAAAAAABKA/8YkbV5eaGmY/s400/P6120107.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I love this Pelican! &nbsp;He was so chillin'! &nbsp;</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-wKuGkPuubIQ/UcZMO65-_GI/AAAAAAAABJA/p9f_Kj2Ffvc/s1600/IMG_4729.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-wKuGkPuubIQ/UcZMO65-_GI/AAAAAAAABJA/p9f_Kj2Ffvc/s400/IMG_4729.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">FYI: &nbsp;Seagulls love cheetos!</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-A254KRurcvk/UcZMddXhadI/AAAAAAAABJI/OWJ6o6Y5XN8/s1600/P6120116.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-A254KRurcvk/UcZMddXhadI/AAAAAAAABJI/OWJ6o6Y5XN8/s400/P6120116.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Osprey build their nest over water and are considered the hawks of the sea.<br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-TWizX2tmrIE/UcZM89lEVjI/AAAAAAAABJU/DjNRZiztOLQ/s1600/P6120128.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="267" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-TWizX2tmrIE/UcZM89lEVjI/AAAAAAAABJU/DjNRZiztOLQ/s400/P6120128.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mama and baby dolphin<br /><br /><br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-F6R9haP-5E8/UcZOXy5lYRI/AAAAAAAABJk/uSGlW46W5DI/s1600/P6120141.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-F6R9haP-5E8/UcZOXy5lYRI/AAAAAAAABJk/uSGlW46W5DI/s400/P6120141.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This was the daughter of the captain of our ship! &nbsp;She taught the kids so much about the different sea creatures we found in the net.</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-N1TwjcOfv9s/UcZQEWkJ2DI/AAAAAAAABJw/BAFpQjK0hnw/s1600/P6120153.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-N1TwjcOfv9s/UcZQEWkJ2DI/AAAAAAAABJw/BAFpQjK0hnw/s400/P6120153.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">We also saw some famous houses! &nbsp;I do not remember who owned this one but if I ever win the lottery, this is what I want!</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><br />We also spent some time at Pier Park. &nbsp;They have tons of things to do there from shopping to an amusement park!<br /><br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-rxHC62t35W4/UcZSXaamH3I/AAAAAAAABKI/nhSk9dnIjL4/s1600/061313183259.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-rxHC62t35W4/UcZSXaamH3I/AAAAAAAABKI/nhSk9dnIjL4/s400/061313183259.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">We ate at Margaritaville and my margarita came in a blender! &nbsp;Woo hoo! &nbsp;Needless to say I was a &nbsp;happy camper!<br /><br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-HjubIuEvoMI/UcZSuxUs54I/AAAAAAAABKU/8O0jlk38_uM/s1600/P6120070.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-HjubIuEvoMI/UcZSuxUs54I/AAAAAAAABKU/8O0jlk38_uM/s400/P6120070.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hubby and son rode this ferris wheel. &nbsp;I figured I'd sit this one out after 2 of the blender margaritas...<br /><br /><br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br />This has got to be one of the funniest things they have at Pier Park.... &nbsp;Maybe it was the margaritas making me laugh so hard but watching grown men do this is HYSTERICAL! &nbsp;We let the kids do it. &nbsp;Next time I think hubby and I will join in. &nbsp;You basically pick a song you want to sing and dance to. &nbsp;They put you in front of a green screen and align your head with the bodies. &nbsp;This one of the kids is funny.....but once they figured out they could move their heads OFF of the bodies, it was over. &nbsp;Being silly was their main goal!<br /><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><object class="BLOGGER-youtube-video" classid="clsid:D27CDB6E-AE6D-11cf-96B8-444553540000" codebase="http://download.macromedia.com/pub/shockwave/cabs/flash/swflash.cab#version=6,0,40,0" data-thumbnail-src="http://img.youtube.com/vi/_uPjXYdNc7w/0.jpg" height="266" width="320"><param name="movie" value="http://youtube.googleapis.com/v/_uPjXYdNc7w&source=uds" /><param name="bgcolor" value="#FFFFFF" /><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true" /><embed width="320" height="266" src="http://youtube.googleapis.com/v/_uPjXYdNc7w&source=uds" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowfullscreen="true"></embed></object></div><div><br /><br /><br /><br />Our nature loving son was in heaven due to the abundance of &nbsp;"animalitos" to be caught!</div><div><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ta0GagKPCmI/UcZYakFFtwI/AAAAAAAABKw/KH8WVm7NTqE/s1600/P6140187.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="212" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ta0GagKPCmI/UcZYakFFtwI/AAAAAAAABKw/KH8WVm7NTqE/s400/P6140187.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A lizard our son caught. <br /><br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><div><br /><br /><br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-yrb0f7gDOYM/UcZYx8up_uI/AAAAAAAABK8/YDcC9y8IPQ4/s1600/061313151402.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-yrb0f7gDOYM/UcZYx8up_uI/AAAAAAAABK8/YDcC9y8IPQ4/s400/061313151402.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mr. Cangrejo (crab)</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><br />Oh! and did I mention the sea food that is readily available and super cheap!<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-jfjSP8Fnf_8/UcZaXGuGiFI/AAAAAAAABLI/f0y5DJXkKGU/s1600/061113193906.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="365" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-jfjSP8Fnf_8/UcZaXGuGiFI/AAAAAAAABLI/f0y5DJXkKGU/s400/061113193906.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">We took advantage of the great prices on shrimp</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-DzrsPgW83-E/UcZaadSMT6I/AAAAAAAABLQ/7mZpXaYZ940/s1600/061113194051.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-DzrsPgW83-E/UcZaadSMT6I/AAAAAAAABLQ/7mZpXaYZ940/s400/061113194051.jpg" width="327" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">and crab legs! &nbsp;"Low Country Boil" compliments of my brother.<br /><br /><br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table>If you've never been to Panama City, it is a great vacationing spot to check out!<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-EcKp_IkHjgU/UcZdUXfdmXI/AAAAAAAABLg/jKSljPBgEGU/s1600/061113145114.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-EcKp_IkHjgU/UcZdUXfdmXI/AAAAAAAABLg/jKSljPBgEGU/s400/061113145114.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Drink in my hand and feet in the sand!</td></tr></tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Uc2AjO_mYrA/UcZdo3DKwjI/AAAAAAAABLo/20qJwcLePDI/s1600/DSCF4541.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Uc2AjO_mYrA/UcZdo3DKwjI/AAAAAAAABLo/20qJwcLePDI/s400/DSCF4541.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Beautiful Panama City Beach sunset!</td></tr></tbody></table>We love it there!</div><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/blogspot/AVHGS/~4/rgDxrd0kPf0" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/blogspot/AVHGS/~3/rgDxrd0kPf0/panama-city.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (Tara)4http://meandthemexican.blogspot.com/2013/06/panama-city.htmltag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6162462957069518522.post-3442411898356313803Sun, 12 May 2013 01:00:00 +00002013-05-11T21:04:11.134-04:00Musical MojoLooking for a little extra "mojo?" &nbsp; I wanted to share a little secret with everyone.<br /><br />This is what helps me exercise when I feel like sitting on the couch. &nbsp;This is what gives me extra energy when my house is a disaster and needs to be spic and span. &nbsp;This is what helps give me that little bit of extra attitude when I'm getting dolled up for a date night with hubby. &nbsp;This is my go to when I'm feeling down and need a burst of happiness...<br /><br />Music!<br /><br /><script src="http://on.socialchorus.com/javascripts/SCEmbedder.js" type="text/javascript"></script><script type="text/javascript"> function socialChorusDelayedLoad() { if(typeof(Halogen) == 'object') { var embedder = new Halogen.SCEmbedder("1932e-187ba-2b56b-3qqad7e9rlh", { html: "<a href='http://soch.us/qP1e-01i38'><img alt='se habla música, target latin music' src='https://activator-production.s3.amazonaws.com/asset/images/images/3215/original/3215.png' /></a>", impressionPixelUrl: "http://soch.us/qP1e-01i38.gif" }); } else { setTimeout('socialChorusDelayedLoad()',100); } } socialChorusDelayedLoad(); </script><br /><div id="_halogen_1932e-187ba-2b56b-3qqad7e9rlh"></div><div id="asset_image_3215_disclosure_description"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Content and/or other value provided by our partner, Target.</span></div><br /><br />But, not just any music. &nbsp;This is my favorite<b><i> Latin playlist</i></b>... <br /><br /><b>1) &nbsp;Solo por Un Beso - Aventura &nbsp; &nbsp;</b>&nbsp;Can we say super romantic? Listen to that guitar, listen to the beat... if you don't find yourself doing some bachata steps around your house while listening to this, something is wrong with you. <br /><br /><b>2) &nbsp;LaTortura - Shakira w/Alejandro Sanz &nbsp;</b>&nbsp; &nbsp;I'll admit that I like to pretend I have Shakira's body and I do some hip shakes and body jerks... &nbsp;I've even been tempted to go out to the garage and grab some motor oil or grease and rub it all over my body. &nbsp;(If you have no clue to what I'm referring, watch the video.)<br /><br /><b>3) Callate - Fulanito &nbsp; &nbsp;</b>If you are learning Spanish, the phrase "Callete y no me digas mas" (Shut up and don't say anything else to me) is a good one to know. &nbsp;You'll have the accent and phrase down pat after this song. &nbsp;This song is full of energy and it is hilarious.<br /><b><br /></b><b>4) I Know You Want Me - Pitbull (Calle Ocho) &nbsp; &nbsp;</b>&nbsp;I love Pitbull's accent when he speaks Spanish. &nbsp;I love to go up to hubby while I'm getting ready before we go out and sing to him, "Rumba, si..... &nbsp; &nbsp;Ella quiere su rumba, como" &nbsp;Especially if we are going out to "rumbiar!" &nbsp;How appropriate.<br /><br /><b>5) &nbsp;Love You Like A Love Song - Selena Gomez &nbsp; </b>I love this song and I'll keep re-peat-peat-peat-peat-peat-peating it!<br /><br /><b>6) Cumbia Sobre El Rio - Celso Pina w/Control Machete &nbsp; </b>I suck at bailando cumbia (dancing to cumbia) but damn it - if I don't try every single time I hear this song. &nbsp;It just does something to me.<br /><br /><b>7) Suavamente - Elvis Crespo &nbsp; &nbsp;</b>You can't help but to move to this song! &nbsp;Echate pa 'ca!<br /><b><br /></b><span style="font-weight: bold;">8) Danza Kuduro - Don Omar and Lucenzo &nbsp; </span>I still put a hand up (mano arriba), &nbsp;only move my waist (cintura sola), give 1/2 a turn (da media vuelta) and I have no idea if I'm doing this Danza Kuduro... &nbsp;Oh well, &nbsp;I don't plan on doing it in public so it really doesn't matter. <br /><br /><b>9) Lamento Boliviano - Enanitos Verdes &nbsp;</b>I love this song ever since I heard hubby play it when he was mixing some music. &nbsp;I do not know much about Enanitos Verdes but I'm making a mental note here and now that I need listen to more of their music. &nbsp; This song is just awesome!<br /><br />and last but not least...<br /><br /><b>10) &nbsp;La Misma Gran Senora - Jenni Rivera &nbsp;</b>I love to belt out these lyrics. &nbsp;Sometimes hubby just shakes his head (side to side in a I-can't-believe-she-is-singing-this ...kind of way), but I figure....a little reminder of La Gran Senora que YO SOY isn't hurting anyone.<b>&nbsp;&nbsp;</b><br /><b><br /></b>I'd love to hear your Latin playlist or your favorite song that you'd add to mine. &nbsp; &nbsp;I love learning about new artists.<br /><br />Leave a comment below for a chance to win a $25 gift card from Target! (make sure I have a way to contact you. &nbsp;ie: email addy, twitter, facebook)<br /><br /><br /><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">This is a sponsored post. &nbsp;All opinions and information are my own.</span><br /><b><br /></b><b><br /></b><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/blogspot/AVHGS/~4/RPYdLBWqq-I" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/blogspot/AVHGS/~3/RPYdLBWqq-I/musical-mojo.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (Tara)15http://meandthemexican.blogspot.com/2013/05/musical-mojo.htmltag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6162462957069518522.post-8930022696585182977Fri, 03 May 2013 22:20:00 +00002013-05-03T18:26:54.213-04:00Georgia AquariumLast weekend we took our son to the Georgia Aquarium. &nbsp;I absolutely love this place! It is beautiful. &nbsp;This was our 2nd visit and I see many more in our future. &nbsp;I thought I'd share some of the highlights of our visit.<br /><br /><br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zUzsqBIOjz8/UYQQ7ArMaDI/AAAAAAAABFo/V1g4EXNUVS8/s1600/P5031454.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zUzsqBIOjz8/UYQQ7ArMaDI/AAAAAAAABFo/V1g4EXNUVS8/s400/P5031454.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I was hiding my huge purse behind my back....not the best pose!</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/--f5gugQNFhM/UYQYNSe5hBI/AAAAAAAABF4/38gtBpebtYY/s1600/Connor+2013.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="225" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/--f5gugQNFhM/UYQYNSe5hBI/AAAAAAAABF4/38gtBpebtYY/s400/Connor+2013.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Starfish, Penguins, Piranha</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-TduS23BHbDg/UYQdEixWcdI/AAAAAAAABGI/zXOXouC9wqo/s1600/Connor+20131.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="225" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-TduS23BHbDg/UYQdEixWcdI/AAAAAAAABGI/zXOXouC9wqo/s400/Connor+20131.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Fish, orange and white worm thingys that were super cute, Dragon Fish, Stingray petting pool<br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div>Most people probably go to see the Whale Sharks... but I couldn't wait to see the Jellyfish! &nbsp; I think they are beautiful. &nbsp;Here is a little video we took of the amazing Jellyfish.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowFullScreen='true' webkitallowfullscreen='true' mozallowfullscreen='true' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/KkpuZTZexfs?feature=player_embedded' FRAMEBORDER='0' /></div><br /><br />The Whale Sharks are pretty awesome though. &nbsp;My pictures really do not do them justice. &nbsp;You must see them in person!<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowFullScreen='true' webkitallowfullscreen='true' mozallowfullscreen='true' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/6U30Nvi73Vg?feature=player_embedded' FRAMEBORDER='0' /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Sadly no videos or pictures were aloud to be taken during the Dolphin Tales or Deepo 3-D shows. &nbsp;&nbsp;</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">If you are ever in the Atlanta area, I hope you get the chance to visit the aquarium. &nbsp;It is a beautiful place full of beautiful sea animals. &nbsp;You learn so much there and my little post doesn't cover half of what they have there. &nbsp;I enjoyed it so much being an adult that I &nbsp;can only imagine the magic a child experiences at the aquarium. &nbsp;We were there for most of the day and hubby had to practically drag my son and I out...</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Hopefully we will be going again soon.</div><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/blogspot/AVHGS/~4/aaCZnw95bJw" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/blogspot/AVHGS/~3/aaCZnw95bJw/georgia-aquarium.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (Tara)6http://meandthemexican.blogspot.com/2013/05/georgia-aquarium.htmltag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6162462957069518522.post-9127346363322523084Fri, 26 Apr 2013 18:56:00 +00002013-04-30T15:46:52.187-04:00Video Viernes Daddy aka "El Dragon"I was on Facebook last night looking at some things I posted years ago. &nbsp;I came across this video and I melted.<br /><br />Get ready.... bout to give my husband some major props!<br /><br />I love my husband! &nbsp;He is the best dad ever! &nbsp;He has always shown our son an abundance of love. &nbsp;He always takes time to play with our son, teach our son, and be a positive role model. &nbsp;This is something I'm extremely grateful for.<br /><br />I posted this video about 4 years ago. &nbsp;I can't believe how time flys! &nbsp;I remember this day like it was yesterday. &nbsp;Please excuse our messy house.....after all, I had no idea I'd be posting this on my blog one day. &nbsp;Their is a mixture of Spanish and English going on in this video, so for those of you who are bilingual; &nbsp;you should understand it all. <br /><br />I love mi familia tanto! &nbsp;Just wanted to share a day in the life with "Me and the Mexican" four years ago.<br /><br /><br /><br /><script type="text/javascript"><!-- google_ad_client = "ca-pub-5712206034924760"; /* meandthemexicanadd */ google_ad_slot = "3413348111"; google_ad_width = 468; google_ad_height = 15; //--></script><script type="text/javascript" src="http://pagead2.googlesyndication.com/pagead/show_ads.js"></script><iframe frameborder="0" height="240" src="https://www.facebook.com/video/embed?video_id=76760008232" width="320"></iframe><br /><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/blogspot/AVHGS/~4/GHs2GjKcCDg" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/blogspot/AVHGS/~3/GHs2GjKcCDg/video-viernes-daddy-aka-el-dragon.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (Tara)0http://meandthemexican.blogspot.com/2013/04/video-viernes-daddy-aka-el-dragon.htmltag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6162462957069518522.post-1640637617243684549Tue, 23 Apr 2013 13:00:00 +00002013-04-23T10:03:37.531-04:00Corazon de Campeon<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0EiwnLY4jxw/UXXUeq1ZOlI/AAAAAAAABFY/yYOugZwzL-M/s1600/2013-04-22" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0EiwnLY4jxw/UXXUeq1ZOlI/AAAAAAAABFY/yYOugZwzL-M/s1600/2013-04-22" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">The past year or two I've gotten more into soccer. &nbsp;I had no idea the fun I was missing out on...</div>It hadn't interested me much in the past but my hubby likes to watch soccer, especially when Mexico is playing. &nbsp;One day I sat down with him and watched it. &nbsp;Little did I know... this was the beginning of a mild obsession.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div>It's been fun learning the rules to the game, the stories about different players, snacking on party appetizers&nbsp;(my little contribution to the games)&nbsp;, and enjoying cervezas and margaritas while the game is on. &nbsp;My favorite part though, is yelling.....GOOOOOOOAAAAAALLLLLL !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!<br /><br />I usually always pull for Mexico when they are playing. &nbsp;Gotta represent my media naranja! &nbsp; The only time I stray is when team Mexico is playing team U.S.A.... then we've got some betting going on.<br /><br />Anyways, the other day I learned about something cool...<br />This year AT&amp;T collaborated with singer-songwriters duo Jesse and Joy to generate extra enthusiasm around the sport of soccer and the Mexican National Team. <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-2g9B54d-Knc/UXW9NqYGswI/AAAAAAAABFA/9yqy_tpXi3I/s1600/2013-04-22" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-2g9B54d-Knc/UXW9NqYGswI/AAAAAAAABFA/9yqy_tpXi3I/s1600/2013-04-22" /></a></div><br />Corazon de Campeon is a song that will be played during exhibition matches and friendlies across the country to help fans celebrate the Mexican National Team's victories. &nbsp;You know how serious soccer fans are... especially Mexican soccer fans. &nbsp;Corazon de Campeon definitely fires up that passion deep within fans of the National Mexican Team! &nbsp;Visit the website at: &nbsp;<a href="http://www.corazondecampeon.net/" target="_blank">www.corazondecampeon.net</a>.<br /><br />Listen to Corazon de Campeon<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowFullScreen='true' webkitallowfullscreen='true' mozallowfullscreen='true' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/75iTnhQ4XrQ?feature=player_embedded' FRAMEBORDER='0' /></div><br /><br /><br />One of my favorite lines in the song is: <br /><i>"El color de mi bandera</i><br /><i>yo lo llevo aqui en mis venas</i><br /><i>llena de pasion"</i><br />Now that sounds like a true fan of &nbsp;team Mexico!!!<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><img src="https://mail.google.com/mail/?ui=2&amp;ik=e14a240491&amp;view=att&amp;th=13e1b6a0172b7264&amp;attid=0.1.8&amp;disp=emb&amp;zw&amp;atsh=1" /></div><br />Honestly, I had no idea AT&amp;T was such a huge supporter of soccer! &nbsp;But how "chido" is that? &nbsp;Access to games, exclusive content, and more via AT&amp;T's leading edge technology and platforms is an awesome way they are helping fans of soccer better connect. &nbsp;I think it's pretty cool how they have helped create something that fans of the Mexican National Team can rally around to show their undeniable love for their team and undefeated spirit. &nbsp; &nbsp;AT&amp;T is constantly strengthening their relationship with the Mexican Soccer Federation in order to deliver the information and content most important to fans. &nbsp;You can like their facebook page by clicking on&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/attlatino" target="_blank"> https://www.facebook.com/attlatino</a>.<br /><br />Corazon de Campeon is such a wonderful &nbsp;tribute and motivational song for the fans and members of the Mexican National Team during their quest to qualify to compete in the largest global soccer stage in 2014.<br /><br />I'm so excited I can hardly stand it and now a song that expresses how so many fans feel! &nbsp;Let's get the word out! &nbsp;#CorazonCampeon<br />Watch Jesse and Joy perform Corazon de Campeon live:<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowFullScreen='true' webkitallowfullscreen='true' mozallowfullscreen='true' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/Up9-EzE8JOE?feature=player_embedded' FRAMEBORDER='0' /></div><br /><br /><br /><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/blogspot/AVHGS/~4/S_FdDGhrdsc" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/blogspot/AVHGS/~3/S_FdDGhrdsc/corazon-de-campeon.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (Tara)0http://meandthemexican.blogspot.com/2013/04/corazon-de-campeon.htmltag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6162462957069518522.post-639683939852449766Sun, 21 Apr 2013 01:25:00 +00002016-01-24T17:02:49.425-05:00Jenni Rivera Who's planning on watching the 2013 Latin Billboard Awards on Thursday, April 25th? &nbsp;You bet I will be! <br /><br /><script src="http://on.socialchorus.com/javascripts/SCEmbedder.js" type="text/javascript"></script><script type="text/javascript"> function socialChorusDelayedLoad() { if(typeof(Halogen) == 'object') { var embedder = new Halogen.SCEmbedder("19334-187ba-2b56b-3qjuechdnug", { html: "<a href='http://soch.us/oHtx-01i38'><img alt='se habla música, target latin music, latin billboard awards, target latin billboard awards' src='https://activator-production.s3.amazonaws.com/asset/images/images/3221/original/3221.png' /></a>", impressionPixelUrl: "http://soch.us/oHtx-01i38.gif" }); } else { setTimeout('socialChorusDelayedLoad()',100); } } socialChorusDelayedLoad(); </script><br /><div id="_halogen_19334-187ba-2b56b-3qjuechdnug"></div><div id="asset_image_3221_disclosure_description"><i>Content and/or other value provided by our partner, Target.</i></div><br /><br />Latin music has an energy all it's own no matter what genre you are listening to. &nbsp;The Latin Billboard Awards is sure to impress like it does every year. &nbsp;I have no idea who will be performing but I'm hoping for performances by &nbsp;Pitbull, Espinoza Paz and Romeo Santos. &nbsp;I'm excited to see what the stars will be wearing as well! <br /><br />But, what I really can't wait for....is finding out who is going to win Artist of the Year!<br />My pick is definitely Jenni Rivera.<br /><br />Advertisement <br /><!-- beginning of adsense --> <script async src="//pagead2.googlesyndication.com/pagead/js/adsbygoogle.js"></script><!-- Meandthemexican belowpost --><ins class="adsbygoogle" style="display:block" data-ad-client="ca-pub-5712206034924760" data-ad-slot="5099794007" data-ad-format="auto"></ins><script>(adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); </script><!-- end of adsense --><br />Now let me explain why.<br />She was an awesome singer and performer. &nbsp;She overcame so many hardships during her short life. &nbsp;My main reason is because Jenni empowered women! &nbsp;She told men and us ladies "like it is!" &nbsp;Jenni's music was for everyone. &nbsp;If you had a good man, you were extra grateful for him after listening to one of her songs. &nbsp;If you didn't have a good man, &nbsp;well you had that much more encouragement to kick him to the curb!<br /><br />Take a look at some of her famous lyrics:<br />(<i>from "Mirame")</i><br /><i>Mirame, no soy la misma de antes &nbsp; (Look at me, I'm not the same as before)</i><br /><i>esta sonrisa es por alguien que quiero a morir &nbsp; (this smile is for someone I love to death)</i><br /><i>Mirame, es un placer saludarte &nbsp; &nbsp;(Look at me, it's a pleasure to say hello to you)</i><br /><i>hoy que tu vives tan triste y yo tan feliz &nbsp; (now that you're living so sadly and I so happy)</i><br /><i><br /></i>Oh yeh! &nbsp;and they only get better....<br /><br /><i>(from "Ese Hombre")</i><br /><i>Ese hombre que tu vez ahi (That man that you see there)</i><br /><i>que parece tan galante&nbsp;</i><i>tan atento y arrogante</i><i>&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; (that seems so galant&nbsp;</i><i>so attentive and arrogant</i><i>&nbsp;)</i><br /><i>lo conozco como a mi &nbsp; &nbsp;(I know him like I know myself)</i><br /><i>Ese hombre que tu vez ahi &nbsp;(That man that you see there)</i><br /><i>que aparenta ser divino tan amable y efusivo &nbsp;(that appears to be divine so friendly and warm)</i><br /><i>solo sabe hacer sufrir &nbsp;(only knows how to make others suffer)</i><br /><i>Es un gran necio, un estupido engreido egoista y caprichoso (he is a big fool, stupid, cocky, selfish, and&nbsp;</i><i>hardheaded )</i><br /><i><br /></i>As you can see, her songs can serve many purposes for us mujeres! &nbsp;It can remind you how lucky you are to have a good man...<br />or<br />it can remind you you are not alone, she's been there too...<br /><br />Okay, so Jenni definitely gets my vote. &nbsp;Plus, I think it would be awesome for her to win Artist of the Year after the tragic accident that took her life. &nbsp;Although she is gone, her memory and music live on.<br /><br />Oh! Guess what... &nbsp; I heard a rumor that a new Jenni Rivera album is going to be released soon. &nbsp;I hope it's true. &nbsp;I'll be at my local Target buying her CD before they are all gone!<br /><br />Would you like the chance to win a $25 Target gift card? &nbsp;Just tell me who you would pick for Artist of the Year. &nbsp;Don't forget to include an email address, so I can get in touch with you once the winner is announced. &nbsp;(Don't worry, you don't have to pick Jenni to win.) <br /><br /><br /><br /><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/blogspot/AVHGS/~4/R1uYAFRW_Sw" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/blogspot/AVHGS/~3/R1uYAFRW_Sw/jenni-rivera.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (Tara)4http://meandthemexican.blogspot.com/2013/04/jenni-rivera.htmltag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6162462957069518522.post-3885130702395042961Thu, 21 Feb 2013 03:23:00 +00002016-01-24T17:04:14.383-05:00Mala Energia and a Little BrujeriaSo lately I've had this feeling like I have some bad energy around me. &nbsp;Not sure where it is coming from... &nbsp;I mean, everything is good. &nbsp;New job, great hours, good health, todo esta bien con mi Mexicano y yo,our son is doing great and we have no worries. &nbsp;I should feel great! &nbsp;I can't seem to shake this feeling though. &nbsp;This happens every now and then but nothing usually happens and the feeling passes. &nbsp;I just hate feeling this way though., especially when I've had it for almost a week now. &nbsp;I'm trying not to feed into it (I'm sure writing this post is kind of defeating "not feeding into it," right?)<br /><br />I miss having conversations con mis amigas Latinas. &nbsp;They had an answer for EVERYTHING! &nbsp;Over the years I've picked up a lot of info on things you can do to help your "situation." &nbsp;I really must say that chatting &nbsp;con amigas who believe in brujeria &nbsp;is quite entertaining and very informative. I never recall hearing any sort of info on just a "bad feeling" you may have and how to get rid of it. &nbsp;It got me to thinking of the other scenarios I heard about and their plans of action. Thought I'd share the ones I remember.<br />(These come from Mexico, Colombia, and Puerto Rico)<br /><br />Advertisement <br /><!-- beginning of adsense --> <script async src="//pagead2.googlesyndication.com/pagead/js/adsbygoogle.js"></script><!-- Meandthemexican belowpost --><ins class="adsbygoogle" style="display:block" data-ad-client="ca-pub-5712206034924760" data-ad-slot="5099794007" data-ad-format="auto"></ins><script>(adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); </script><!-- end of adsense --><br /><ul><li>If someone is coming over to your house and they have "bad energy" or are "evil" etc... &nbsp;You need to put a glass of clean water close to the door so when they enter it will catch the negativity and bad energy of said person.</li><li>To draw your significant other closer to you, write both your name and his/her name on two separate strips of paper. &nbsp;Face them together and fold until small, then put in a bottle or container of "miel" (honey).</li><li>If &nbsp;you believe or know your significant other is having an affair, talking to someone "inappropriate", hanging out with a bad friend, etc... and you want to separate the two. &nbsp;Write the names of both people on two separate strips of paper. &nbsp;Face them opposite each other. &nbsp;Do not fold together. &nbsp;Take a lime and cut an opening in it. &nbsp;Place the names in the opening. &nbsp;Wrap in aluminum paper (foil) and place in the freezer.</li><li>This one, I can NOT post! &nbsp;It's pretty disgusting. &nbsp;It is apparently suppose to make your man obsessed with you. (Not sure I'd want that! LOL) &nbsp;I bet some of the ladies out there have heard of it. Ewww! &nbsp;I guess desperate times call for desperate measures.</li></ul><div><br /></div><div>So, how am I gonna kick this bad feeling to the curb???</div><div>Be positive, pray, exercise maybe feng-shui my house some...</div><div>and if all else fails, I'll try <a href="http://www.sion.com/especiales/esoterismo/nota_04.htm" target="_blank">THIS</a>! &nbsp;(yes, I googled mala energia) &nbsp;Actually, the bath sounds kind of nice as long as I don't end up smelling like vinegar.</div><div><br /></div><div>Suggestions? &nbsp;</div><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/blogspot/AVHGS/~4/DoNt0Knu6wM" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/blogspot/AVHGS/~3/DoNt0Knu6wM/mal-energia-and-little-brujeria.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (Tara)6http://meandthemexican.blogspot.com/2013/02/mal-energia-and-little-brujeria.html